There is a special kind of peace that comes from locking your front door and leaving for a well-deserved vacation. But viral household hacks can sometimes create unnecessary worries. One popular tip claims you should cover every sink and shower drain with an upside-down glass or plastic bag before leaving. Fortunately, most homes already have a simple defense against sewer gases.
Underneath most sinks is a curved pipe called a P-trap. It holds a small amount of water after the fixture is used. This water creates a seal that helps prevent sewer gases from traveling backward through the plumbing and entering your home. Similar traps are commonly found beneath showers, bathtubs, and floor drains.
For a normal vacation lasting several days or a few weeks, covering drains is generally unnecessary if the plumbing is functioning properly. However, rarely used fixtures can eventually lose their water seal because evaporation removes the water. Before leaving, briefly run water through sinks, showers, bathtubs, and other seldom-used fixtures to refresh their traps.
There are more useful precautions to take before traveling. Check underneath sinks and around toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters for leaks or moisture. Inspect appliance hoses and water connections for cracks, corrosion, or looseness. A small leak can become a major problem when nobody is home to notice it.
Some homeowners also shut off the main water supply before leaving. This can reduce damage if a pipe or hose fails, but it is not suitable for every home. Heating systems, sprinklers, irrigation equipment, boilers, and other appliances may require an active water supply. Check your system or consult a qualified professional before doing this.
Good pest prevention is also straightforward. Remove food scraps, empty trash, clean kitchen surfaces, and store pantry foods securely. Repair damaged screens and seal obvious exterior gaps. Peppermint oil or other scented remedies should not be considered dependable pest control.
If you return to a sewer smell, run water into the affected drain. If the odor persists, there could be a damaged trap, plumbing defect, blocked vent, or another issue requiring professional attention. Persistent odors should be investigated rather than simply covered with fragrance.
The takeaway is simple: for most vacations, you do not need an upside-down glass over every drain. Your home’s plumbing already provides a built-in water barrier. Refresh rarely used traps, check for leaks, secure food and trash, and make sensible water-supply decisions. Then lock the door, leave the worries behind, and enjoy your trip.