Before leaving home for several days, it is common to check that everything is in order: empty the refrigerator, disconnect some electrical appliances, turn off the water supply or check that doors and windows are properly secured. However, in addition to these tasks, There are small household tricks that many people use to try to avoid problems while the home is closed.
One of them consists of leave a glass upside down on a sheet of absorbent paper placed over the sink drain. Although at first glance it may seem like a strange gesture, the idea has an explanation related to the operation of the pipes and the water evacuation system.
What is the purpose of placing a glass on a sheet of paper in the sink?
Under the sink is the siphon, a piece of the installation that keeps a small amount of water inside. This water acts as a natural seal that prevents gases from the sanitation network from rising to the home. When a house remains unused for several days or even weeks, especially during the summer and in areas with high temperatures, some of that water can slowly evaporate. If the level drops enough, sewer odors can make their way into the kitchen.
Although this problem does not occur in all homes, It can appear in homes that remain closed for a long time or whose drains are rarely used.
The objective of this method is reduce air circulation over the drain and delay the evaporation of water from the trap. To do this, first place a sheet of kitchen paper or absorbent paper covering the sink hole. Then, an empty glass is placed upside down on top of the paper.
The glass creates a small chamber that limits the passage of air, while the paper helps retain moisture for longer. It is not an airtight system nor does it completely guarantee that odors will not appear, but it can help slow down evaporation if the house is going to remain closed for several days. Additionally, the paper may offer a clue upon returning home. If it appears damp or wet, it could indicate that water has backed up the drain or that there is a drainage problem that should be checked.
How to prepare the sink before leaving home
In addition to the glass and paper, many home maintenance specialists advise carrying out a previous cleaning of the drain.
A simple way is to:
- 1. Clean the sink well and remove any leftover food.
- 2. Pour hot vinegar down the drain and leave it on for several hours to help eliminate residue and neutralize odors.
- 3. Rinse afterwards with hot water.
- 4. Clean the sink surface with a suitable product or with lemon, which helps remove traces of dirt and provides a fresh smell.
- 5. Place finally the absorbent paper and the glass upside down.
This procedure does not replace periodic maintenance of pipesbut it can help leave the sink in better condition during your absence.
Other tips to avoid surprises when you return
Home maintenance professionals remember that bad odors do not always come only from the sink. They can also appear in showers, sinks or sinks that are rarely used.
Before spending several days away from home It is also recommended:
- Check that all drains contain water.
- Empty the trash and clean the bins.
- Turn off the general water supply if the home is going to remain empty for a long period of time.
- Check that there are no visible leaks.
- Leave the house properly ventilated before closing doors and windows.
It is worth taking into account that This method does not solve plumbing problems or prevent the appearance of odors if there is a breakdown, a leak or a defective siphon.. Its usefulness is only related to reducing the evaporation of water from the siphon during periods of inactivity.
If bad odors persist when you return, It is best to check the condition of the pipes.check that the siphon retains water and, if the problem continues, consult a professional to rule out obstructions or defects in the installation.
In the end, leaving a glass on a sheet of paper in the sink is a simple gesture with practically zero cost that can serve as a preventive measure along with other usual tasks before leaving the house empty for several days. It doesn’t work miracles, but it can help prevent bad odors from appearing when you return.