Before heading out on vacation, most of us run through the essentials — adjust the thermostat, clear the fridge, water the plants, double-check the doors. But there’s one tiny household detail that rarely makes the list, and ignoring it can lead to an unexpected, musty smell when you return. When a house sits untouched for days or weeks, a quiet part of the plumbing system can dry out just enough to let odors slip into the air, taking away from that joyful “I’m finally home” moment.

Under every sink is a curved pipe called a P-trap, designed to hold a bit of water. That small pool acts like a protective seal, helping prevent sewer gases or insects from making their way inside. During everyday use, the water stays put. But when faucets aren’t turned on for a while, evaporation can slowly lower the water level — and once that barrier disappears, subtle odors may drift up through the drain and into the room.

A quick, no-cost fix can help. Before leaving, place a dry paper towel over the drain and secure it with an upside-down glass. This creates a breathable shield that helps reduce smells and discourages insects from sneaking in, without sealing the drain too tightly. It’s often more reliable than a rubber stopper, which can loosen or shift over time — and it uses items almost everyone already has in the kitchen.

For an even fresher return, give the sink a short cleaning routine beforehand. Rinse with warm water, swirl in a splash of vinegar to clear residue, wipe the surface dry, and then add the towel and glass. It takes less than a minute, yet it can make walking back into your home feel clean, calm, and welcoming. Sometimes the smallest preventive steps offer the biggest peace of mind.