Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I already have drain flies in my bathroom?
A: If you see tiny fuzzy flies hovering around your sink, it means there is organic buildup in the pipe above the water line in the P-trap. The glass hack won’t fix this. Instead, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to flush it, or use a natural enzymatic drain cleaner before you leave for your trip.
Q: Should I cover my drain if I live in an area with a lot of bugs?
A: If you are worried about pests, covering the drain isn’t the answer, as bugs can find their way around plastic wraps. Instead, focus on ensuring your window screens don’t have tears, and use the peppermint oil cotton ball trick under your sinks!
Q: Is it safe to leave the water in the P-trap for a month?
A: Yes! As long as your home is climate-controlled (not freezing cold or sweltering hot), the water in the P-trap will easily last for a month or more without evaporating. If you are leaving for longer than a month, just use the mineral oil trick I mentioned above!
Let’s Travel with Peace of Mind!
I truly hope this takes the worry out of your next vacation. It is so empowering to know that we don’t need to fall for stressful internet hacks when good, old-fashioned plumbing science has already solved the problem for us. By taking ten minutes to run the water, turn off the main valve, and use a little peppermint oil, you are protecting your home and, more importantly, protecting your own heart health by letting go of travel anxiety.
If you try my 3-Ingredient Avocado, Feta & Mint Whip when you get back from your next trip, I would absolutely love to hear how it hit the spot! Do you have a favorite “welcome home” meal that requires zero effort? Drop a comment below to share your wisdom, and please share this article with a friend who is about to travel and might be stressing over those viral sink hacks.
Safe travels, stay healthy, and I’ll see you when you get back!
