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.
\nWhile the idea is based on a real plumbing principle, experts say the method is unreliable
\nThe key is the P-trap, the U-shaped pipe under drains that holds water to create a \u201cwater seal\u201d blocking sewer gases and pests.<\/p>\n
If a drain goes unused for weeks, the water can evaporate, especially in hot or dry conditions, allowing odors or insects inside.
\nAlthough covering the drain may seem helpful, \u201cUnless the upside-down glass creates a tight seal over the drain opening, it\u2019s unlikely to do much of anything.\u201d
\nThe paper can also become damp and fail to seal the drain.
\nInstead, 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.
\nFor extended vacations, adding a tablespoon of mineral oil can slow evaporation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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