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

According to Loïc, a plumber with 18 years of experience in southwest France:

“Before going away, I always tell my clients: clean the sink well, pour hot white vinegar down the drain, and place an upside-down glass on a paper towel. It prevents about 80% of the post-vacation plumbing problems I get called for each summer.”

Your Pre-Vacation Sink Ritual: Step-by-Step

Here’s exactly what to do before locking the door:

1. Clean the sink thoroughly, paying extra attention to the drain and its surroundings.

2. Pour 2–3 liters of hot white vinegar down the drain to disinfect and dissolve buildup.

3. Let it sit overnight with the drain loosely covered (a stopper or cloth works).

4. Flush with hot water the next morning.

5. Rub half a lemon around the drain to neutralize lingering odors and add a fresh scent.

6. Dry the sink completely.

7. Place a paper towel directly over the drain opening.

8. Set a glass upside down over the paper so it fully covers the opening.

Done in under 10 minutes, this small habit can protect your kitchen from smells, bugs, and moisture buildup while you’re away.

“Why Not Just Use the Stopper?”