Drug Lab Indicators

Drug manufacturing techniques can leave behind odours that might include cat urine, ether, ammonia, acetone, or other chemicals.

Dark stains on benches, in sinks or bathtub/shower are often left behind.


Chemical supplies and equipment may be present. Often the equipment is made from what is handy. This might include plastic tubs or buckets and glass jars. Over-the-counter cold medications containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, iodine, red phosphorous, hydrochloric acid, ammonia (gas or liquid), caustic soda, peroxide and acetone are among the ingredients most commonly used. These compounds, or the packaging, are red flags to drug manufacture.