Here’s Why You Should Always Leave an Upturned Glass and a Piece of Paper in the Sink Before Going on Vacation
When we prepare for vacation, we often make a checklist: pack clothes, charge devices, water the plants, empty the trash, and lock the doors. But there’s a little-known trick that experienced travelers and home experts swear by: leaving an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink before leaving your home.
It may sound unusual at first, but once you understand the logic behind it, you’ll see why this simple habit can protect your home, save you headaches, and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
The Trick Explained
- Before you leave:
- Place a drinking glass upside down in your kitchen sink.
- Place a dry piece of paper (or paper towel) underneath it.
That’s it. But what does this actually do?
1.
Flood Detection Made Easy
Water leaks and floods are a homeowner’s nightmare, especially if they happen while you’re away. If a pipe bursts, the dishwasher leaks, or a faucet drips constantly, you might not notice until you return. By leaving an upturned glass and a piece of paper in your sink, you create a simple water detection system.
- If you return and find the paper is wet or gone, it’s a clear sign water has entered the sink area.
- The glass ensures the paper doesn’t get blown or moved accidentally — it only changes if water is present.
This trick can give you an immediate clue that there was a leak while you were away.
2.
Prevents Unwanted Odors and Insects
Another reason people do this is to discourage pests. If there’s stagnant water or food residue in the sink, it can attract small insects. By leaving the glass and paper in place, you’ll notice any water seepage or dampness — a condition pests love — before it gets worse.
3.
A Peace-of-Mind Habit
Many travelers love this hack because it feels like a built-in security check. When you return, one glance at your sink tells you whether something happened while you were gone. If the paper is dry and untouched, your kitchen likely stayed safe.
Other Smart Things to Do Before Going on Vacation
The glass-and-paper trick is clever, but don’t stop there! Here are some extra tips to make sure your home stays safe:
- Turn off the water supply – If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, shut off your home’s main water valve.
- Empty the fridge – Toss out anything that will expire while you’re away to avoid nasty surprises.
- Take out the trash – Prevent odors and pests from building up.
- Unplug electronics – Save energy and reduce fire risks by unplugging unused devices.
- Set lights on a timer – It makes your house look occupied, deterring burglars.
- Ask a neighbor or friend for help – A quick check-in can make a big difference.
FAQs
1. Why not just rely on water sensors instead of this hack?
High-tech water sensors are great, but they cost money and sometimes fail. The glass-and-paper trick is free, simple, and effective as a backup method.
2. Can I use something other than paper?
Yes — a paper towel, tissue, or even a small napkin will work. The idea is that it reacts visibly to water.
3. Do I need to use a specific type of glass?
No, any regular drinking glass will do. Just make sure it’s placed upside down firmly.
4. Is this trick only for the kitchen sink?
Mostly, yes. But you could also try it in other areas prone to leaks, like the bathroom.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, the simplest tricks are the most effective. By leaving an upturned glass and a piece of paper in your sink before going on vacation, you give yourself an easy, low-cost way to spot leaks, prevent unwanted surprises, and return home with peace of mind.
👉 Have you tried this trick before, or do you have your own vacation-prep hacks? Share them in the comments — your tip might help someone else travel stress-free!