When getting ready for a long trip, most people focus on the obvious—locking doors, unplugging devices, and adjusting the thermostat. But one small detail often gets overlooked: your sinks. A drain that sits unused for days or weeks can quietly become a source of unpleasant odors, greeting you with a stale smell the moment you return. Taking a few minutes to address this before you leave can make a noticeable difference in how your home feels when you walk back in.

The issue usually comes down to a simple but essential part of your plumbing: the P-trap. This curved pipe beneath your sink holds a small amount of water that acts as a barrier, blocking sewer gases from entering your home. When you’re using your sink regularly, that water stays fresh. But during extended periods of inactivity, it can slowly evaporate. Once that happens, the protective seal disappears, allowing odors to travel back up through the drain.

A quick and effective way to prevent this is with a simple household trick. Before you leave, place a folded paper towel over the drain and cover it with an upside-down glass. This creates a light barrier that helps keep odors and insects out, while still allowing minimal airflow. Unlike tightly sealed stoppers, this method avoids trapping excess moisture, which can lead to unwanted buildup or mildew.

For even better results, pair this with a bit of basic maintenance. Run hot water down the drain to clear any residue, then add a small amount of white vinegar to help neutralize odors. Make sure the sink is dry before setting up your cover. This small routine takes just a few minutes, but it ensures that when you return home, you’re welcomed by a clean, fresh space—not a reminder of what was left behind.