How to Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh While You’re Away on Vacation

Nothing spoils your return from a relaxing vacation like opening your front door to a musty, unpleasant-smelling home. But with just a few easy and natural steps, you can avoid bad odors from sinks, toilets, appliances, and more. Here’s how to leave your house smelling fresh and welcoming—even after days or weeks away.

1. Block Odors from Kitchen Drains

1.1 Use a Glass and Paper Trick

When a kitchen sink isn’t used for a while, the water in the drain trap can evaporate, letting sewer smells creep back up. To prevent this:

Place a sheet of paper towel or printer paper over the drain.
Top it with an upside-down glass to weigh it down.
This creates a simple barrier that slows down evaporation and blocks odors.
Avoid using oil in the drain—it can solidify and clog the pipes.

1.2 Clean the Drains Naturally

Before leaving, flush the drain with a natural deodorizing mix:

Pour in 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda,
Add half a cup of white vinegar,
Let it fizz for 10 minutes,
Then rinse with hot water.

2. Prepare the Toilet Properly

2.1 Keep Water in the Tank

It might seem smart to empty the toilet before leaving, but this can dry out rubber seals and cause leaks. Instead:

Turn off the water supply if needed,
But leave some water in the tank to protect the seals.

2.2 Freshen the Bowl

To avoid a stagnant smell:

Scrub the bowl clean,
Add a bit of white vinegar or toilet cleaner,
Optional: drop in a few essential oil drops (lemon, eucalyptus) for a fresh scent.

3. Freshen Up Appliances

3.1 Fridge

Remove all perishable food,
Wipe the interior with vinegar or baking soda,
Place a half lemon or a bowl of baking soda inside to absorb smells.

3.2 Dishwasher & Washing Machine

Clean filters and seals,
Run an empty cycle with white vinegar to remove residue and odors.

4. Don’t Forget Trash and Laundry

4.1 Take Out the Trash

Empty every trash bin in the house,
Rinse them with hot water and vinegar if needed.

4.2 Handle Dirty Laundry

Wash all dirty clothes,
Don’t leave damp or used laundry in baskets,
Air out laundry rooms or closets.

5. Final Freshening Touches Before You Leave

5.1 Let the Air Circulate

Open all windows for a few hours before departure,
If possible, ask a neighbor to check in and air out the house occasionally.

5.2 Natural Deodorizers

Place baking soda bowls in key areas like the kitchen and bathroom,
Use cotton balls with essential oils (lavender, citrus) in drawers and closets.

By following these easy tips, you’ll ensure that your home remains fresh, clean, and odor-free—ready to welcome you back from your trip with open arms.