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A glass of water and a paper towel in the sink: the trick to use before you leave on vacation

If you want to avoid coming home to a musty kitchen and unpleasant sink smell, one quick step before heading out can save you trouble laterโ€”no cleaners or effort required. When the house sits quiet for days or weeks, air becomes stagnant and drains dry out. Oddly enough, the kitchen sink is one of the ... Read more

1 November 2025

Brandee Gruener
A glass of water and a paper towel

Table of Contents

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  • Why do sinks smell when youโ€™re gone?
  • A quick trick before you leave
    • Step 1: Refill the water seal
    • Step 2: Cover the drain with a damp paper towel
  • How long does the protection last?
  • Bonus protection for longer trips
    • A little mineral oil
    • Trap-seal products
    • If you have a garbage disposal
    • Homes with septic systems
  • Common mistakes to avoid
  • Donโ€™t forget the other drains
  • The science behind it
  • Your easy pre-vacation checklist
  • If you still notice an odor upon return
  • Helpful tip for frequent travelers

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