Before heading off on vacation, most people remember to lock the doors, unplug certain appliances, and make sure the windows are closed. However, there is one small household detail that is easy to overlook: the kitchen and bathroom drains. Preparing them before leaving can help reduce the chances of returning to unpleasant odors or unwanted insects.

The water inside your plumbing traps normally acts as a barrier that prevents sewer gases from entering your home. When a property remains empty for an extended period, some of this water can evaporate, particularly in warm conditions. Food residue, grease, and other buildup inside drains can also contribute to unpleasant smells. Before leaving, clean your sinks, remove visible debris, and run water through each drain to ensure the plumbing traps are filled.

You may have heard about placing a paper towel over a sink drain and covering it with an upside-down glass. This simple trick can act as a temporary physical barrier against some insects entering through the drain opening. However, it is not a guaranteed solution. The glass and paper do not create an airtight seal, and some sinks have overflow openings that remain uncovered.

For better results, focus on cleaning and maintaining your plumbing rather than relying entirely on this trick. Remove food scraps from kitchen sinks, clean drain stoppers, and avoid leaving dirty dishes or standing food residue behind. If you regularly notice drain flies, persistent odors, or slow drainage, the problem may require more thorough cleaning or a plumbing inspection.

Taking a few minutes to prepare your sinks before a trip can help keep your home fresher while you are away. Running water to refill the plumbing traps and cleaning away residue are more important than covering the drain with a glass. The paper-and-glass method may offer an additional temporary barrier, but it cannot replace proper drain maintenance. A little preparation before departure can make returning home much more pleasant.