Should You Cover Your Sink Before Vacation? Here’s What You Need to Know
A simple travel tip has been making the rounds online, claiming that placing a sheet of paper over a sink drain and covering it with an upside-down glass before leaving home can help keep unpleasant odors and insects from entering the house while you’re away.
The suggestion is based on a real plumbing concept, but professionals say the method is not a dependable solution.
The reason has to do with a part of the plumbing system known as the P-trap. This U-shaped section of pipe, located beneath sinks, showers, and tubs, is designed to hold a small amount of water. That water forms a barrier that helps prevent sewer gases, unpleasant smells, and small pests from traveling back through the drain and into the home.
When a drain is used regularly, the water in the P-trap is constantly refreshed. However, if a sink or other fixture goes unused for an extended period—particularly during a long vacation—the water can gradually evaporate. This process happens more quickly in warm, dry environments, reducing the effectiveness of the water seal.
Some people believe covering the drain with paper and an upside-down glass can solve the problem. While it may appear to add an extra layer of protection, plumbing experts note that the method is unlikely to create an airtight seal. Without a secure seal, odors or insects may still find their way through the drain. In addition, paper can absorb moisture, become damp, and lose its ability to cover the opening effectively.
A more reliable approach is to prepare your plumbing before leaving home. Running water through every sink, shower, bathtub, and floor drain helps refill the P-traps and restore the protective water barrier. Afterward, using built-in drain stoppers or properly fitting rubber or silicone drain covers can provide additional protection. Some homeowners also use plastic wrap beneath a drain stopper to create a tighter temporary seal.
If you expect to be away for several weeks or longer, another commonly recommended option is to pour a small amount of mineral oil into each drain after running the water. The thin layer of oil floats on top of the water inside the P-trap, helping reduce evaporation and allowing the water seal to last longer.
Although the viral hack is based on a real plumbing principle, experts agree that maintaining the water inside the P-trap and using appropriate drain covers are much more dependable ways to help prevent odors and unwanted insects while your home is unoccupied. Taking a few minutes to prepare your drains before traveling can provide greater peace of mind and help keep your plumbing system working as intended.
