Leaving an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink before a vacation is a simple trick some people use as a quick check for signs of unwanted water activity or leaks while they’re away.
The idea is:
- The upturned glass can act as a small “marker” — if it’s moved, knocked over, or no longer in the same position when you return, it may suggest something disturbed the sink area (though it won’t prove what happened).
- The piece of paper can reveal moisture. If you place a dry sheet under or near the glass, water dripping from a leaking tap, pipe, or condensation may leave a mark or make the paper soggy, alerting you to a problem.
However, it’s more of a low-tech reminder/check than a reliable leak detector. Before leaving for a longer trip, it’s better to:
- Turn off the main water supply if appropriate.
- Check taps, pipes under sinks, and appliances for leaks.
- Make sure drains are clear.
- Ask someone you trust to check your home if you’ll be away for an extended period.
The glass-and-paper trick can give you a small clue, but it won’t replace proper preparation.
