We all know the routine before a vacation: lock the doors, set the alarms, unplug appliances. But there’s one simple, often-overlooked trick that can save you from coming home to nasty surprises—placing an upside-down glass and a piece of paper in your sink.
Why This Hack Works
1. Prevents Dry Drain Traps & Sewer Gas
Your sink’s P-trap (the U-shaped pipe under it) holds water to create a seal, blocking sewer gases from rising into your home. If you’re away for weeks, that water can evaporate, breaking the seal and letting foul odors (or even pests) in.
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The glass trick: Flipping a water-filled glass upside-down slowly releases water, keeping the trap sealed.
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For longer trips: Add a teaspoon of mineral oil to slow evaporation even more.
2. Acts as a Leak Detector
A sheet of paper (tissue, paper towel, or even a napkin) placed under the glass serves as a silent alarm.
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If pipes leak while you’re gone, the paper will show water stains—alerting you to check for hidden damage.
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