Put A Bag of Coins Over Your Drain — Here’s Why It Actually Works
I know, the headline sounds a little strange. Why put a bag of coins over the drain? But this is one of those old, practical tricks that can save the day when you need it most. If you’ve ever gone to fill a sink only to realize the stopper is missing or broken, this simple workaround can save the day. It’s not fancy, but it’s surprisingly effective at blocking a drain and a great travel hack too.
Why Weight Matters Most
Most people assume you need a perfect seal to block a drain. In reality, weight does most of the work. A small bag of coins presses down evenly over the drain opening, slowing or fully stopping water from slipping past. The pressure helps compensate for small gaps around the edges when you can’t get a tight seal. It’s the same reason heavy rubber stoppers work better than light plastic ones. Gravity is keeping everything in place for you.
Why Coins Work Best
You could use a cup or a plate, but coins have a unique advantage over both of these. They’re dense, flexible when inside a bag, and able to mold better to the shape of the drain. That flexibility helps block water more effectively than a rigid object that might leave gaps. A zip-top bag or even a thin plastic grocery bag works well to put the coins in. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly so nothing escapes down the drain.
When This Trick Comes In Handy
This works especially well for quick jobs like soaking dishes, rinsing produce, hand-washing clothes, or giving pets a bath in the sink. It’s also useful in older homes where drain stoppers never quite fit right of if you’re traveling and need to fill a hotel sink. Think of it as a temporary fix, not a forever solution. It buys you time and lets you finish your job without having to buy a new drain plug.
How To Use It Without Making A Mess
Place the bag directly over the drain before turning on the water. Add water slowly at first so the bag settles into place instead of floating. If you see water draining through, adjust the bag slightly until it sits flat over the drain. And remember to avoid overfilling the sink. This trick works best when you only need to fill the sink up to half-full. And always remove the bag carefully so you don’t splash yourself or drop it.
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-How to Remove Sink Drain – A Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Once you know this hack, you won’t forget it. Many people start keeping a small coin bag under the sink just in case. It’s one of those low-effort tricks that quietly makes life easier. No tools, no store run, and no stress. Just a simple solution using something you already have.
Bliss Donahue-Power
