Here’s why you should always leave an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink before going on vacation

When we think about getting ready for a vacation, our minds usually go to the essentials: booking hotels, packing bags, checking IDs, setting the GPS, and maybe arranging for someone to water the plants. But there’s one small, nearly invisible step that most people overlook — and it can save you from a very unpleasant surprise when you return: leaving an upside-down glass on a piece of paper in your kitchen sink.

At first glance, this might sound odd — like something straight out of a TikTok hack or your grandmother’s old home remedy book. Yet this simple, clever trick is gaining popularity for a good reason: it works. And best of all, it’s quick, free, and easy to do.

The Sink: A Forgotten Weak Spot in Vacation Prep

Most vacation checklists include turning off the lights, locking all doors, emptying the fridge, setting the thermostat, and making sure the water is turned off. But there’s one area that often gets forgotten: the kitchen sink.

And that’s a problem.

Because during your absence, your sink and its connected pipes can become a breeding ground for issues — especially in hot or humid weather.

Here’s what can happen while you’re away: