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Before leaving home, run water through all sinks, tubs, showers, laundry drains, and floor drains that may be present.
Flush the toilets once and make sure seldom-used drains are not forgotten.
For longer trips, close built-in stoppers or use rubber plugs, silicone covers, plastic wrap, or painter’s tape to reduce evaporation and block the drain opening.
For extended absences, a small amount of mineral oil may help keep the water in the trap from evaporating too quickly.
These steps are more reliable than placing paper and glass over the drain because they support the plumbing system the way it was designed to work.
The Bottom Line
The paper-and-upside-down-glass trick is based on a real concern, but it is not the best solution.
P-traps can dry out when drains sit unused for a long time, especially in hot, dry, or well-ventilated spaces.
When that happens, sewer odors and unwanted pests may have an easier path into the home.
However, a loose glass and a sheet of paper are unlikely to create the kind of dependable seal needed to prevent the problem.
The better approach is simple: refill the traps, seal the drain openings properly, and consider mineral oil for longer trips.
There is no need for a complicated balancing act in the sink. A few practical steps before leaving town can do far more to keep drains protected, odors controlled, and the home more comfortable when you return.
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