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The Genius Hack: Why You Should Leave an Upside-Down Glass in Your Sink Before Vacation 🏖️🚰
Turns out, this simple trick solves a common (and gross) problem many travelers face—and it takes zero effort. Here’s why it works:
The Problem:
When you’re away, drain pipes can dry out, letting sewer gases (or even critters!) creep up through your sink’s drain. Worse: If your home loses water pressure, contaminated water can backflow into unused pipes.
The Glass Trick:
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Fill a drinking glass halfway with water.
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Place it upside-down over the sink’s drain (press gently to create a seal).
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The water’s weight + airtight seal blocks odors, pests, and backflow while you’re gone.
Bonus Benefits:
✔ Prevents fruit flies from breeding in damp drains.
✔ No need for chemical cleaners—it’s all physics!
✔ Works for weeks (unlike baking soda/vinegar fixes).
Pro Tip: Do this in every sink (bathroom too!) and add a bowl of vinegar nearby to absorb lingering smells.
Why It’s Brilliant (But Nobody Thinks of It):
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Uses what you already have (no fancy gadgets).
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Silent protection—no alarms or maintenance.
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Landlord-approved (unlike drain covers that might violate leases).
Science Side Note: The water’s surface tension creates a vacuum seal—similar to how a toilet’s trap blocks gases.
What Else to Do Before Vacation:
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Turn off the main water valve (avoid leaks/floods).
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Unplug appliances (save power, prevent surges).
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Put a delay on your mail (deter burglars).
Final Thought: Next time you pack your bags, spend 10 seconds on this trick—your nose (and plumbing) will thank you later!
Question: Any other weird-but-useful travel hacks you swear by? 😉
