Here’s Why You Should Always Leave an Upturned Glass and a Piece of Paper in the Sink Before Going on Vacation

When preparing for vacation, we think about hotels, packing, IDs, GPS routes, and watering plants. But there’s one small, nearly invisible step that could save you from a nasty surprise when you get back: leaving an upside-down glass on a sheet of paper in your kitchen sink.

It sounds odd, almost like a TikTok hack or an old grandmother’s trick, but it’s effective, simple, and free.

Why the Sink Matters More Than You Think

While we carefully lock doors, shut off water, and empty the fridge before leaving, the sink is often forgotten. Unfortunately, that little drain can cause big problems after days of inactivity:

  • Unpleasant odors rising from the pipes

  • Insects (flies, ants, cockroaches) sneaking up through the drain

  • Condensation and stagnant humidity

  • Siphons evaporating in high heat, removing the natural odor barrier

Instead of being welcomed by a fresh, clean home, you could be greeted with foul smells as soon as you open the door.

The Upside-Down Glass Trick