10 Smart Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas for 2026

A small bathroom can feel like a design puzzle, but the right remodel can transform it from cramped to cozy and functional. Many homeowners believe a major overhaul is the only way to make a big impact, but strategic upgrades can unlock hidden potential, add significant value, and create a space that feels surprisingly expansive. Forget the idea that limited square footage restricts your options; it simply calls for smarter, more creative solutions.

This guide explores 10 actionable small bathroom remodel ideas, from clever storage solutions that banish clutter to design tricks that create an illusion of space. We move beyond generic advice to provide a comprehensive roadmap for your project. You'll find specific, practical insights into everything from floating vanities that open up floor space to frameless shower doors that erase visual barriers.

For each concept, we will break down:

• Estimated Costs: Understand the potential budget implications.
• Pros and Cons: Make informed decisions that fit your lifestyle.
• Installation Complexity: Gauge the scope of work required.

Whether you're planning a full renovation or a simple refresh in the Fort Collins area, these insights will help you navigate your project with clarity. We’ll show you how to maximize every inch, ensuring your bathroom is not only beautiful but also perfectly suited to your daily needs. This curated collection is designed to inspire your planning process and empower you to build a bathroom that is both practical and polished, no matter its size.

1. Floating Vanities and Wall-Mounted Sinks

One of the most effective small bathroom remodel ideas is to reclaim valuable floor space by elevating key fixtures. Floating vanities and wall-mounted sinks achieve this by mounting directly to the wall, leaving the floor underneath completely clear. This simple change creates an immediate illusion of a larger, more open room because the eye can see the entire floor, uninterrupted.

This design choice, popularized by minimalist and contemporary styles, offers more than just visual benefits. The open space beneath makes cleaning significantly easier, eliminating the awkward corners and toe-kicks where dust and grime accumulate. This approach adds a clean, modern aesthetic that feels both airy and sophisticated.

How to Implement This Idea

• Ensure Proper Support: Your wall framing must be reinforced to support the weight of the vanity, sink, and its contents. A professional installer will add blocking between the studs to create a secure anchor point capable of holding 50 pounds or more.
• Plan for Plumbing: Supply and drain lines must be routed through the wall rather than the floor. This requires careful planning with an experienced plumber to ensure a clean, hidden installation.
• Select the Right Size: Floating vanities come in various sizes, from compact 18-inch models perfect for powder rooms to larger units with dual sinks. Choose one with integrated drawers or shelves to maintain storage functionality.
• Consider Installation Height: The standard height for a vanity top is between 30 and 36 inches. Mount it at a comfortable level for all users in your household.

This strategy is ideal for homeowners who want to introduce a modern, high-end feel while maximizing every square inch of their bathroom. The initial installation can be more complex than a standard vanity, but the payoff in visual space and style is substantial. To better understand the investment, you can learn more about the cost of installing a bathroom vanity and factor it into your project budget.

2. Large Format Tiles and Minimal Grout Lines

Another powerful strategy among small bathroom remodel ideas is to trick the eye with fewer visual interruptions. Using large format tiles, such as 12×24 inch or even 24×48 inch slabs, minimizes the number of grout lines on your walls and floors. This reduction in visual clutter creates a seamless, expansive surface that makes the room feel significantly larger and more cohesive.

This modern approach moves away from the busy, grid-like patterns of traditional smaller tiles. Fewer grout lines also mean less maintenance, as grout is porous and prone to collecting dirt and mildew. The result is a clean, contemporary aesthetic that feels luxurious, open, and is far easier to keep sparkling clean. This choice is a cornerstone of minimalist and spa-inspired bathroom designs.

How to Implement This Idea

• Choose the Right Color and Finish: Lighter colors like soft whites, light grays, or warm beiges reflect more light and enhance the sense of space. For floors, select tiles with a matte or textured finish to ensure they are slip-resistant when wet.
• Plan the Layout Meticulously: A precise layout is crucial to minimize awkward cuts and waste. Work with your installer to determine the best starting point to ensure full tiles are featured in the most visible areas, such as opposite the doorway.
• Use High-Quality Grout: Opt for a high-performance grout like epoxy or urethane, which offers superior resistance to stains, moisture, and cracking compared to traditional cement-based grout. Matching the grout color closely to the tile will further enhance the seamless effect.
• Ensure a Perfectly Level Substrate: Large format tiles require a completely flat, stable surface (substrate) to prevent cracking or lippage, where one tile edge is higher than its neighbor. Professional floor preparation is non-negotiable for a successful installation.

This idea is perfect for homeowners wanting a modern, low-maintenance finish that visually expands their space. While the tiles themselves can be more expensive and require skilled installation, the impact on the room's perceived size and sophisticated feel is undeniable.

3. Corner and Frameless Walk-In Shower Designs

Replacing a bulky tub or a framed shower enclosure with a corner or frameless walk-in design is a transformative strategy for any small bathroom. These modern solutions utilize clear glass panels and minimal hardware to eliminate visual barriers, allowing sightlines to extend to the back wall. This transparency makes the entire bathroom feel more expansive and open.

Popularized by high-end hotels and contemporary home design, this approach trades clunky shower curtains and metal frames for sleek, seamless glass. The result is not only a visually larger space but also a more luxurious and spa-like shower experience. By placing the shower in a corner, you optimize the room's layout and reclaim valuable square footage that a traditional tub would occupy.

How to Implement This Idea

• Ensure Proper Waterproofing: A flawless waterproof membrane must be installed behind the tile and on the shower pan. This is a critical step to prevent leaks and water damage to your home’s structure.
• Plan the Floor Slope: The shower floor must be sloped correctly, typically at least 1/8 inch per foot, to guide water toward the drain and prevent pooling. A linear drain can offer a modern look and efficient drainage.
• Choose Quality Glass: Select 6-8mm thick tempered glass for the enclosure. This provides the necessary safety and durability while maintaining a sleek, minimalist aesthetic.
• Incorporate Smart Storage: Install a recessed niche in the shower wall for storing shampoo, soap, and other toiletries. This keeps surfaces clear and maintains the design's clean, uncluttered lines.

This idea is perfect for homeowners looking to modernize their space, improve accessibility with a curbless entry, and create a high-impact visual statement. For more insights into maintaining your new fixture, you can find information about the best caulking for a shower to ensure a lasting, watertight seal.

4. Recessed Medicine Cabinets and Built-In Storage

One of the most strategic small bathroom remodel ideas is to tuck storage into the walls instead of letting it protrude into the room. Recessed medicine cabinets and built-in niches use the space between wall studs, providing valuable storage without sacrificing a single inch of floor or air space. This keeps the bathroom feeling open and uncluttered while keeping essentials neatly organized and out of sight.

This approach is highly effective in modern and minimalist designs where clean lines are paramount. By building storage into the wall cavity, you maintain a flat, streamlined profile that enhances the sense of space. From mirrored cabinets with integrated LED lighting to custom shower niches for toiletries, this technique combines functionality with a sleek, high-end aesthetic that feels intentional and organized.

How to Implement This Idea

• Check for Obstructions: Before cutting into drywall, you or your contractor must verify the wall cavity is free of plumbing, electrical wiring, or HVAC ducts. This is a critical first step for a successful installation.
• Frame the Opening: A recessed cabinet or niche requires a properly framed opening within the wall studs. This ensures structural integrity and provides a secure mounting surface for the unit.
• Choose Integrated Features: Select a medicine cabinet with features that add value, such as integrated outlets for electric toothbrushes, anti-fog mirrors, or adjustable LED lighting to improve task lighting over the sink.
• Create Shower Niches: During a shower remodel, ask your contractor to build one or more recessed niches into the shower walls. This eliminates the need for bulky shower caddies and keeps shampoo and soap bottles off the floor.
• Consider Mirrored Backs: For open shelving or glass-front cabinets, adding a mirrored back can create a surprising illusion of depth and reflect more light around the room.

Recessed storage is a brilliant solution for any homeowner looking to maximize organization in a compact bathroom. It requires more planning and construction than surface-mounted options, but the payoff in a clean, functional, and visually spacious room is significant.

5. Light Colors and Strategic Lighting Design

Perhaps the most timeless of all small bathroom remodel ideas is the strategic use of light and color to create an open, airy atmosphere. A light, neutral color palette-think soft whites, light grays, and pale beiges-serves as a reflective canvas. When combined with a well-planned, layered lighting scheme, it can make even the most compact bathroom feel spacious and inviting.

This powerful combination works by minimizing shadows and maximizing the bounce of both natural and artificial light. Light-colored walls, floors, and tiles don't absorb light; they reflect it, effectively erasing the visual boundaries of the room. A layered lighting design, incorporating ambient, task, and accent lighting, ensures the space is evenly and beautifully illuminated, eliminating dark corners and creating a sense of depth.

How to Implement This Idea

• Choose a Light Color Palette: Opt for high-quality paint in a glossy or semi-gloss finish to enhance reflectivity. Pair it with light-colored tiles, like white subway or large-format porcelain, and a matching light grout to create a seamless, expansive look.
• Layer Your Lighting: A successful design includes multiple light sources. Install recessed ceiling lights for overall ambient illumination, add sconces or a vanity bar for shadow-free task lighting, and consider a small pendant or under-cabinet lighting for accent.
• Select the Right Bulb Temperature: For a flattering, spa-like ambiance, use warm white LED bulbs (2700K-3000K). These create a welcoming glow that avoids the sterile feel of cooler-toned lights.
• Install Dimmers: Dimmable switches are a crucial, low-cost addition that allows you to control the mood and intensity of the lighting, transitioning from bright and functional for the morning routine to soft and relaxing for an evening bath.

This approach is perfect for homeowners looking to achieve a classic, clean aesthetic that won't go out of style. It is one of the most cost-effective and impactful small bathroom remodel ideas, offering a significant visual return on investment by fundamentally transforming the perception of the space.

6. Pocket Doors and Sliding Doors

The traditional swing door is an often-overlooked space thief in a compact bathroom, demanding a significant clearance arc that renders valuable floor area unusable. One of the most impactful small bathroom remodel ideas is to replace it with a pocket or sliding door. These doors operate by sliding into an adjacent wall cavity or along a track, completely eliminating the door swing and freeing up an average of 8 to 10 square feet of functional space.

This reclaimed area can be a game-changer, allowing for a larger vanity, a more comfortable toilet placement, or simply an uncluttered entry. Popularized by modern designers and universal design specialists, this solution enhances both accessibility and aesthetics. A white or natural wood pocket door can create a seamless, contemporary look, while a frosted glass version allows light to pass between rooms, further enhancing the sense of space.

How to Implement This Idea

• Plan During Framing: Pocket doors require a "pocket frame" installed within the wall. This must be planned during the initial design or demolition phase to ensure the wall is free of plumbing, electrical wiring, or critical structural supports.
• Ensure Adequate Wall Depth: A standard pocket door frame requires a wall thickness of at least 4.5 inches. Your contractor will need to confirm the wall can accommodate the frame without compromising structural integrity.
• Invest in Quality Hardware: The door’s smooth operation depends entirely on the track and roller system. Use high-quality hardware from trusted brands to prevent jamming, noise, and future maintenance issues. A soft-close mechanism is a highly recommended upgrade.
• Consider Privacy and Light: While solid doors offer maximum privacy, a frosted or textured glass pocket door can be an excellent choice for an en-suite or master bathroom, maintaining a visual connection and sharing light without sacrificing seclusion.

This strategy is perfect for tight layouts where a swinging door creates an awkward or cramped entry. While the installation is more complex than a standard pre-hung door, the spatial gains and clean, modern aesthetic provide a significant return on the investment, making it a cornerstone of efficient small bathroom design.

7. Vertical Storage Solutions and Wall-Mounted Shelving

When floor space is at a premium, the only direction to go is up. Vertical storage is one of the most intelligent small bathroom remodel ideas, utilizing wall space to store essentials without sacrificing a single square inch of the floor. Floating shelves, tall ladder units, and over-the-toilet cabinets draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious.

This approach, championed by minimalist and Scandinavian design, turns storage into a decorative feature. Open shelving offers a chance to display curated items like neatly rolled towels, attractive toiletries, or small plants, adding personality and style. By keeping daily necessities accessible and organized, vertical storage effectively combats clutter, which is a major enemy of small spaces.

How to Implement This Idea

• Secure Your Shelves: Always mount shelves directly into wall studs for maximum stability. If studs are not available in the desired location, use heavy-duty wall anchors rated to support more weight than you plan to store.
• Use Baskets and Bins: Keep open shelves looking tidy and organized by grouping smaller items in coordinating baskets, jars, or bins. This creates a clean, cohesive look and prevents the shelves from appearing cluttered.
• Vary Shelf Placement: Instead of a single, long shelf, consider installing multiple shorter shelves at staggered heights. This adds visual interest and creates a more dynamic, custom look on your wall.
• Maximize Unused Space: The area above the toilet is often overlooked. An over-the-toilet cabinet or a set of floating shelves in this spot provides significant storage without interfering with the bathroom's layout.

This strategy is perfect for homeowners who need to boost storage capacity without undertaking a major layout change. It is a cost-effective solution that merges form and function, adding both organizational power and decorative flair to a compact bathroom. You can tailor this idea to any budget, from simple DIY shelves to professionally installed custom cabinetry.

8. Pedestal Sinks and Compact Vanities

For those prioritizing an open, airy feel over extensive storage, pedestal sinks and compact vanities are classic small bathroom remodel ideas. Pedestal sinks, with their slender base and exposed plumbing, eliminate the visual bulk of a traditional cabinet, making the room feel significantly larger and more elegant. Compact vanities (typically 24 to 30 inches wide) offer a middle ground, providing essential storage without overwhelming a tight space.

These fixtures are perfect for powder rooms or guest bathrooms where storage needs are minimal. The timeless appeal of a pedestal sink fits well in both vintage-inspired and modern minimalist designs, while a well-chosen compact vanity adds functionality with a minimal footprint. This approach reduces clutter at floor level, contributing to a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

How to Implement This Idea

• Compensate for Lost Storage: If choosing a pedestal sink, plan for alternative storage. Wall-mounted cabinets, recessed medicine cabinets, or narrow floating shelves above the sink can hold daily essentials without taking up floor space.
• Select an Appropriate Size: Measure your space carefully. A compact 24-inch vanity can fit into a tight corner, while a slim pedestal sink works well in narrow layouts. Ensure there is enough clearance around the fixture for comfortable use.
• Plan the Plumbing and Wall Finish: With a pedestal sink, the plumbing is exposed. Opt for attractive finishes like chrome or brushed nickel for the P-trap and supply lines. The wall behind the sink must be fully finished, as it will be visible.
• Choose Faucets Wisely: Single-handle faucets are easier to clean and operate, making them a practical choice for smaller sinks. Ensure the faucet's spout reach is adequate for the basin to prevent splashing.

This strategy is ideal for homeowners looking to create a classic, spacious look on a budget. Both pedestal sinks and compact vanities are generally more affordable than larger, custom units. While sacrificing under-sink storage, the gain in visual space and timeless style makes them a powerful tool in any small bathroom renovation.

9. Dual-Purpose Fixtures and Space-Saving Innovations

One of the most intelligent small bathroom remodel ideas is to choose fixtures that serve more than one purpose. Dual-purpose fixtures and space-saving innovations consolidate functionality, reducing the number of individual items needed and thereby freeing up valuable wall and floor space. This strategy enhances convenience and efficiency without expanding the room's physical footprint.

Popularized by efficient Japanese and European designs, this approach introduces a layer of modern luxury and practicality. Examples include combination toilet-bidet units that eliminate the need for a separate bidet, heated towel racks that warm your linens while also drying them, and smart mirrors with integrated lighting and anti-fog features. These innovations create a streamlined, high-tech experience in even the most compact bathrooms.

How to Implement This Idea

• Plan for Utilities: Many dual-purpose fixtures, like smart toilets or lighted mirrors, require electrical connections. Ensure your bathroom's wiring and plumbing can support this new technology, and consult with a licensed electrician and plumber during the planning phase.
• Prioritize High-Impact Items: Start with fixtures that save the most space or add the most convenience. A toilet-bidet combo, for example, offers significant functional benefits while a heated towel rack adds a touch of luxury and helps reduce moisture.
• Research Product Quality: Since these are often technological investments, thoroughly research brand reputation, product warranties, and user reviews. Look for fixtures that are both easy to use and built to last.
• Ensure Code Compliance: Verify that any new fixtures meet local building and safety codes, especially for electrical and plumbing components. A professional installer will be familiar with these requirements.

This strategy is perfect for homeowners who want to maximize utility and introduce modern conveniences without cluttering their space. While the initial cost of multi-functional fixtures can be higher than their standard counterparts, the long-term benefits in space, energy efficiency, and user experience provide an excellent return on investment.

10. Accent Walls and Strategic Design Details

Adding personality and depth to a small bathroom doesn't require a complete overhaul. Accent walls, which use bold color, unique patterns, or interesting textures, are one of the most effective small bathroom remodel ideas for creating a powerful focal point. By concentrating a high-impact design on a single wall, you guide the eye, create visual interest, and make the room feel intentionally designed without overwhelming the space.

This design strategy delivers a significant aesthetic return on a relatively small investment. Whether it's a deep, moody paint color behind the vanity, a vibrant patterned tile in the shower, or textured shiplap behind the toilet, the accent wall introduces character and dimension. It breaks up the monotony of a uniformly tiled or painted room, making the space feel more curated and dynamic.

How to Implement This Idea

• Choose a Strategic Location: The most effective accent walls are placed where you want to draw attention, such as the wall behind the vanity and mirror or the back wall of a shower. This creates a natural focal point.
• Select Appropriate Materials: Use high-quality, moisture-resistant paint designed for bathrooms. For tile or wallpaper, ensure the product and adhesive are rated for wet or high-humidity environments to prevent peeling or mildew.
• Balance Boldness with Neutrality: To avoid making the room feel smaller, balance your bold accent wall with neutral colors on the other three walls. Keep fixtures and accessories minimal and complementary to let the accent wall shine.
• Test Before You Commit: Lighting dramatically affects color and texture. Always test paint swatches or tile samples in your bathroom's specific lighting conditions at different times of day before making a final decision.

This approach is perfect for homeowners who want to inject style and personality into their bathroom affordably and with minimal disruption. It’s a versatile technique that can be adapted to any style, from modern to rustic. To explore more creative approaches, you can find further inspiration from these design ideas for a small bathroom and see how strategic details can transform your space.

10 Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas Comparison

Design Option	Implementation Complexity 🔄	Resource Requirements ⚡	Expected Outcomes 📊	Ideal Use Cases 💡	Key Advantages ⭐
Floating Vanities and Wall-Mounted Sinks	Moderate–High — needs wall reinforcement and concealed plumbing	Skilled carpentry & plumbing; mid–high material cost	Open floor, streamlined aesthetic, easier cleaning	Small contemporary bathrooms seeking floor clearance	Creates space illusion, customizable heights, modern look ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Large Format Tiles and Minimal Grout Lines	Moderate — requires experienced installers and substrate prep	Higher material cost; skilled tile labor	Visually larger, seamless surfaces, easier maintenance	Unified floors/walls and shower surrounds in small baths	Reduces grout, durable, contemporary finish ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Corner and Frameless Walk-In Shower Designs	High — precise waterproofing, slope, and glass work	High cost for tempered glass, waterproofing, skilled contractors	Reclaims footprint, open sightlines, high-end appearance	Replacing tubs, aging-in-place, tight layouts needing openness	Maximizes openness/accessibility, premium aesthetic ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recessed Medicine Cabinets and Built-In Storage	Moderate — drywall removal, possible stud/electrical relocation	Moderate labor & materials; possible electrical work	Increased storage without projection; light reflection	Small baths needing concealed storage and brighter mirrors	Space-saving, reflective surfaces, organized storage ⭐⭐⭐
Light Colors and Strategic Lighting Design	Low–Moderate — paint and lighting layout; some electrical work	Low–Moderate cost; LED fixtures, optional skylight	Brighter, visually larger rooms; improved task lighting	Any small bathroom for affordable brightening and refresh	Maximizes perceived space, energy-efficient lighting ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pocket Doors and Sliding Doors	High — significant wall modification and framing	Moderate–High hardware and carpentry; possible coordination with services	Reclaims 8–10 sq ft; improves flow and accessibility	Tight entryways, master/guest baths where swing clearance is limited	Saves swing space, improves accessibility, modern feel ⭐⭐⭐
Vertical Storage & Wall-Mounted Shelving	Low — straightforward installs if anchoring into studs	Low cost; shelves, anchors, baskets	More storage while freeing floor area; visual vertical interest	Budget-conscious projects and renters needing easy upgrades	Flexible, affordable, easy to reconfigure ⭐⭐⭐
Pedestal Sinks and Compact Vanities	Low — standard plumbing; minimal carpentry	Low cost fixtures; minimal materials	Reduced visual bulk and more open floor; limited storage	Very small powder rooms or guest baths	Affordable, airy appearance, easy cleaning ⭐⭐⭐
Dual-Purpose Fixtures & Space-Saving Innovations	Moderate–High — specialized plumbing/electrical and integration	Higher upfront cost; specialty installers; possible electrical upgrades	Increased utility in same footprint; potential water/energy savings	Tech-forward, eco-conscious small bathrooms	Multifunctional, modern convenience, efficiency gains ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Accent Walls and Strategic Design Details	Low — paint, tile, or wallpaper application	Low–Moderate depending on material choice	High visual impact and focal points with minimal renovation	Adding personality without structural work; behind vanity or shower	Affordable focal point, easily updated, high impact ⭐⭐⭐

Bringing Your Vision to Life with a Trusted Partner

Embarking on a small bathroom remodel can feel like navigating a complex puzzle, but as we've explored, the right pieces can create a truly stunning and functional picture. From the visual expansion offered by large-format tiles and frameless showers to the ingenious space-saving power of floating vanities and recessed medicine cabinets, the possibilities are vast. Your compact bathroom doesn't need to be a source of frustration; it can be a showcase of smart design and personalized style. The journey from a cramped, outdated space to a serene, efficient retreat is built on a foundation of deliberate choices.

The key takeaway is that a successful transformation hinges on a holistic approach. It’s not just about one brilliant idea, but about how multiple small bathroom remodel ideas work in harmony. For instance, pairing a light color palette with a robust, layered lighting design can dramatically alter the perception of space. Similarly, combining vertical storage solutions with a space-saving pocket door addresses both clutter and clearance issues simultaneously, proving that thoughtful integration is the most powerful tool in your design arsenal.

From Ideas to Implementation: The Path Forward

Moving from inspiration to action requires a clear plan. The concepts discussed, from dual-purpose fixtures to strategic accent walls, provide a comprehensive toolkit. Your next step is to evaluate your own space and prioritize which of these solutions will have the most significant impact on your daily routine and aesthetic goals.

Consider these actionable steps to begin your journey:

• Audit Your Current Space: Identify the primary pain points. Is it a lack of storage, poor lighting, or an awkward layout? This assessment will help you focus on the ideas that offer the most relevant solutions.
• Define Your Non-Negotiables: Decide which features are "must-haves." Perhaps you've always dreamed of a walk-in shower, or you absolutely need more counter space. Establishing these priorities early will guide your budget and design decisions.
• Align with a Remodeling Package: Think about where your vision falls within a framework like SouthRay's Practical, Polished, and Luxury tiers. This helps set realistic expectations for the scope, materials, and level of finish you can achieve within your budget.

The Value of Professional Partnership

While a DIY approach might be tempting for some elements, the complexities of a small bathroom often require professional expertise. A seasoned design-and-build firm can see potential and pitfalls you might miss. They can navigate tricky plumbing reroutes, ensure electrical work is up to code for damp environments, and maximize every square inch with custom solutions that off-the-shelf products simply can't match.

Partnering with an expert team transforms a potentially stressful process into a seamless and predictable experience. For homeowners in Fort Collins and Northern Colorado, this means having a trusted guide who understands local building codes and has established relationships with quality suppliers. It's about more than just construction; it's about a commitment to transparent communication, proactive problem-solving, and delivering a finished space that exceeds your expectations. By entrusting your project to professionals, you invest in peace of mind and the long-term value of your home, ensuring your beautiful new bathroom is built to last.

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Ready to turn these small bathroom remodel ideas into a reality without the stress and guesswork? The team at SouthRay Kitchen & Bath specializes in transforming compact spaces with transparent pricing and a client-focused process, ensuring your Fort Collins or Northern Colorado project is a resounding success. Schedule a consultation today to explore your options and see how our Practical, Polished, and Luxury packages can bring your vision to life. SouthRay Kitchen & Bath

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