A popular vacation hack claims that placing paper over your sink drain and covering it with an upside-down glass can stop sewer smells and insects from entering your home while you are away.

The idea comes from a real plumbing feature called a P-trap, the curved pipe under sinks and drains that holds water to block sewer gases and pests from traveling back into your house.

The problem happens when that trapped water slowly evaporates during long periods without use, leaving an open path for unpleasant odors and insects.

For most normal vacations, this usually is not a major concern because the water inside a P-trap can remain for weeks, but hot climates, dry air, and unused drains can make evaporation happen faster.

Although the paper-and-glass method sounds logical, it does not create a proper seal and can easily shift, become damp, or leave gaps where odors and insects can still enter.

Before your next trip, you may want to skip this viral trick because there is a much simpler method plumbers rely on that protects your home far more effectively.The best way to prepare your drains before leaving is to run water through every sink, shower, bathtub, and floor drain for several seconds to refill the protective P-traps.

For longer trips, experts recommend using proper drain plugs, silicone covers, or sealed barriers, and some homeowners add a small amount of mineral oil on top of the drain water to slow evaporation.

Other simple steps can also prevent problems, including emptying trash cans, cleaning garbage disposals, protecting pipes in freezing weather, and considering shutting off the main water supply during extended absences.

The viral sink cover trick is based on a real plumbing concept, but a proper water seal and secure drain protection are much more reliable ways to keep your home fresh while you travel.