In warm weather, water inside plumbing traps can slowly evaporate, allowing unpleasant sewer smells to rise through the drains. Damp, stagnant areas may also attract gnats, ants, or cockroaches.
A simple solution is to clean and dry the sink, place a paper towel over the drain, and cover it with an upside-down glass. This creates a barrier that may help block odors and insects while the house is empty.
For extra freshness, clean the drain with hot vinegar and rinse it before covering it. This small step can help you return to a cleaner, fresher-smelling home after your trip.
