Leaving an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink before going on vacation is a simple “home check” trick that some people use to spot signs of a problem while they’re away.
The idea is:
- The glass acts as a marker: Place a glass upside down in the sink or on a dry surface. If it has moved, fallen, or is no longer where you left it, it may suggest that something disturbed the area.
- The paper acts as a moisture indicator: Put a dry piece of paper near the glass. If a slow leak, dripping tap, or water splash occurs, the paper may show dampness or water marks when you return.
However, this trick is not a guaranteed way to detect leaks and won’t alert you to many plumbing problems. Before leaving for a trip, more reliable steps include:
- Turn off the main water supply if you’ll be away for a long time and it’s practical to do so.
- Check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances for existing leaks.
- Make sure taps are fully closed.
- Clear drains and remove standing water.
- Ask a trusted person to check your home periodically during a long absence.
The glass-and-paper method can be a small visual clue, but proper preparation and regular checks are much better protection against water damage.
