July 17, 2025, 4:21 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Those heading off on a well-deserved vacation don’t want to be greeted by unpleasant odors from the sink upon their return. This is where a currently popular trick comes in, ensuring fresh air in the kitchen with minimal effort, even during extended absences. All you need are two items everyone has at home: a glass and a sheet of paper.
Odor-Free Return Thanks to a Simple Trick
If you want to counteract unpleasant odors from the sink after your vacation, you can use the following trick:
- Place a sheet of paper over the drain in the sink
- Position a glass upside down on top of it
How the Trick Protects Against Unpleasant Sink Odors
Beneath the sink is the siphon, an S-shaped pipe filled with a layer of water. This barrier usually prevents wastewater gases from entering the kitchen. However, especially in the warm season, the water can slowly evaporate, particularly if no water flows for days. The result: The siphon’s protective function decreases, and the typical drain odor can spread unhindered.
The improvised cover reduces the evaporation of siphon water and simultaneously prevents dirt particles or small insects from entering the drain. By combining paper and glass, you can create an almost airtight barrier that maintains the siphon’s protective function, effectively preventing unpleasant odors in the sink during your vacation.
Another advantage of the trick is the reduction of backflows. The barrier protects the drain from particles or other foreign objects entering, settling, and potentially causing blockages. This way, the sink remains hygienic and functional even after a long absence.
Important Pre-Trip Check
To ensure that no unpleasant odors await you from the sink after your vacation, it’s advisable to refill all drains in the house with water before leaving. Additionally, check for leaks or any visible blockages. This way, you can reliably avoid unpleasant surprises.
Why You Should Put Coffee Grounds in the Toilet Before Vacation
Why You Should Put a Roll of Toilet Paper in the Refrigerator
Why is the siphon actually curved?
More Tips to Keep the Sink Free of Odors During Vacation
Besides the glass and paper trick, there are other measures to prevent odors during your vacation. This includes thoroughly cleaning the kitchen sink—ideally with home remedies such as baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water. These mixtures dissolve deposits and have an antibacterial effect. Before the vacation, old sponges or cloths should either be disposed of or thoroughly washed and completely dried. Damp sponges are true breeding grounds for bacteria.
Also crucial: Empty the trash can before the vacation and add a few tablespoons of baking soda or some cat litter to the bottom to neutralize odors and possibly absorb moisture.
You can also prepare the refrigerator for a longer absence. Perishable foods should be completely removed before departure. To absorb unpleasant odors, place a cup filled with coffee grounds in the refrigerator. If you empty your refrigerator and turn off the power, leave the refrigerator door slightly open to prevent mold growth. You can simply wedge a wooden spoon in the door for this purpose.