A viral travel hack suggests covering a sink drain with paper and an upside-down glass before leaving home to stop sewer odors and insects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the idea is based on a real plumbing principle, experts say the method is unreliable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The key is the P-trap, the U-shaped pipe under drains that holds water to create a\u00a0\u201cwater seal\u201d\u00a0blocking sewer gases and pests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If a drain goes unused for weeks, the water can evaporate, especially in hot or dry conditions, allowing odors or insects inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although covering the drain may seem helpful,\u00a0\u201cUnless the upside-down glass creates a tight seal over the drain opening, it\u2019s unlikely to do much of anything.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The paper can also become damp and fail to seal the drain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, before a long trip, run water through every sink, shower, and tub to refill the P-traps, then seal drains with existing stoppers, rubber plugs, silicone drain covers, or plastic wrap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For extended vacations, adding a tablespoon of mineral oil can slow evaporation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A viral travel hack suggests covering a sink drain with paper and an upside-down glass before leaving home to stop sewer odors and insects. While the idea is based on a real plumbing principle, experts say the method is unreliable. The key is the P-trap, the U-shaped pipe under drains that holds water to create…<\/p>\n