Before heading out on vacation, most of us run through the same mental checklist: doors locked, thermostat adjusted, fridge cleared out. We’re careful, because no one wants to come home to surprises. But there’s one spot that often slips through the cracks—the kitchen sink. At a glance, it might look perfectly fine. But while you’re away, that sink can turn into trouble. Food remnants in the disposal start to rot, leaving behind stubborn odors.
If the water in the drain trap evaporates, it can allow sewer gases—or even pests—to make their way inside. And something as small as a slow drip can attract insects. By the time you smell or see the problem, it’s already too late. The good news? A little preparation makes all the difference. Before you leave, run cold water with ice or citrus through the disposal to clear away buildup. Follow it with a flush of baking soda and vinegar, then rinse with hot water to leave everything fresh.
If your trip will be more than a few days, pour a splash of mineral oil into the drain—this keeps the trap from drying out while you’re gone. Finish by wiping down the sink and checking for small leaks around the faucet. It only takes a few minutes, but it can save you from an awful “welcome home” moment. Imagine returning from a relaxing vacation, only to be greeted by sour odors or a sink full of gnats—that’s a memory no one wants.
So, the next time you’re preparing for a trip, add the sink to your travel checklist. A quick routine now guarantees a cleaner, fresher kitchen when you return. Because after days or weeks away, the best homecoming is stepping back into a space that feels just as peaceful as the trip you left behind.