Common Places Alcoholics May Hide Their Alcohol

Many people in the United States, and globally, struggle with an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), and will often go to great lengths to hide their problematic drinking and their alcohol. This page will demonstrate some of the common places and ways that those struggling with alcohol use will try to hide their alcohol consumption.

Common Places for Hiding Alcohol

Here are some of the common places where alcoholics may attempt to hide and conceal their alcohol use:

• In Their Vehicle:
  • Alcoholics may keep bottles or containers of alcohol hidden in their car, often in the glove compartment, trunk, or under the seats.
• At Home:
  • Inside closets, behind or underneath clothing
  • In kitchen cabinets or pantries behind food items
  • In the garage or storage areas, mixed among other belongings
  • In the attic or basement
  • Inside empty or disguise bottles (e.g., water bottles, soda bottles)
• In Office or Workplace:
  • In desk drawers
  • In filing cabinets
  • Inside personal bags or purses
  • In restroom stalls or hidden spots within the workplace
• Outdoor Locations:
  • In the garden shed or tool storage area
  • Buried in the backyard or garden
  • Hidden in a camping or outdoor equipment
• Disguised Containers:
  • Alcoholics may transfer alcohol into non-alcoholic containers like water bottles, soda cans, or iced tea containers to make it less obvious.
• Furniture and Upholstery:
  • Some individuals may hide alcohol within the cushions of couches or chairs.
• Personal Items:
  • In gym bags or exercise equipment
  • Inside old clothing, shoes, or boots
  • In luggage or suitcases
• Bathroom and Toiletries:
  • In bathroom cabinets or behind toiletries
  • Inside cleaning supply containers
• In Plain Sight:
  • Some alcoholics may become so accustomed to their habits that they keep alcohol in plain sight, relying on others not to notice or confront them.
• At Social Events:
  • Alcoholics may sneak alcohol into social gatherings by carrying small concealed containers or by pre-mixing alcoholic drinks in non-alcoholic beverage containers.

Getting Help for Alcohol Addiction

It’s important to remember that hiding alcohol is often a sign of a deeper problem—alcohol use disorder. If you suspect someone you care about is hiding their alcohol use, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and encourage them to seek help. Alcohol addiction is a treatable condition, and support from loved ones can be a critical factor in recovery.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) has a number of treatment facilities throughout the US which offer treatment for alcohol addiction, with detox, inpatient, and outpatient rehab programs available. Contact our admissions navigators today to begin the recovery process.