21 Best Practical Bathroom and Travel Upgrades for Maximum ROI

This article is reader-supported. We analyzed thousands of user discussions and reviews to find the most practical, high-ROI items so you don’t waste your money. We may earn a commission from the links below.

Daily bathroom routines and travel packing frequently bleed away our time and patience through messy counters, disorganized bags, and inefficient tools. We filtered out flimsy gimmicks to focus exclusively on items that offer genuine longevity and cost savings. The promise is straightforward: practical tools that solve daily frustrations without draining your wallet or wasting your storage space.

1. Lay-n-Go Cosmo Layflat Drawstring Cosmetic & Makeup Bag Organizer

Best for: Messy travelers or anyone who dumps all their makeup onto the bathroom counter every morning.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Minimalists who only own three pieces of makeup and prefer structured, rigid cases.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 9/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 2/10

The ROI Audit

Serving as our baseline for practical organization, this bag eliminates the “black hole” effect of traditional cosmetic pouches. Buyers constantly mention the loud, satisfying ziiiip sound of the heavy-duty drawstring quickly pulling a massive pile of makeup into a tight, secure bundle. It saves significant time in the morning by letting you see every product at once without digging. Unlike structured bags, it easily conforms to the awkward remaining spaces in a stuffed suitcase.

βœ… The Win: Instantly packs away a massive pile of loose makeup by simply pulling a string.
βœ… Standout Spec: A raised lip around the edge prevents eyeliner pencils from rolling off the counter.
❌ The Counter Space Requirement: When fully open (20 inches), it requires a massive amount of empty vanity space to lay flat.

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2. Bloody Mat – Turns Red When Wet

Best for: Pranksters, Halloween enthusiasts, or horror fans wanting a highly specific bathroom aesthetic.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Anyone looking for a functional, water-absorbing bath mat to prevent slips.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 4/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 7/10

The Novelty Check

Unlike the Lay-n-Go bag which offers high daily utility, this mat is almost entirely a novelty item. Users report the slick, plasticky texture of the thin material, noting that it provides zero cushion underfoot. It delivers exactly on its visual promiseβ€”water turns the white sheet a vibrant, creepy redβ€”but fails completely as a traditional bath mat. It is essentially a large, reusable prank prop.

βœ… The Win: Delivers a highly effective, startling visual prank for guests using your bathroom.
βœ… Standout Spec: The color-changing chemical reaction is reversible once the mat dries completely.
❌ The Safety Hazard: It absorbs zero water, meaning puddles form immediately, creating a dangerous slipping hazard on tile floors.

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3. SereneLife Bubble Bath Mat

Best for: Renters or homeowners with basic tubs who want a cheap jacuzzi experience without the renovation cost.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People who prefer quick showers and never take long soaks.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 6/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 5/10

The Relaxation Evaluation

Stepping away from cheap novelty, this gadget attempts to physically upgrade your tub. Buyers report the loud, churning motor noise of the external air pump that sits outside the tub. It creates a surprisingly strong, bubbling massage effect without the thousands of dollars required for a real jacuzzi installation. However, setting up the hose and mat requires effort before every bath.

βœ… The Win: Converts a stagnant, boring bathtub into a bubbling massage spa.
βœ… Standout Spec: A waterproof wireless remote allows you to adjust bubble intensity from inside the water.
❌ The Suction Failure: The suction cups on the bottom of the mat struggle to stick to curved or heavily textured tub floors, causing the mat to float.

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4. Flykee Straw Spiral Cocktail Glass

Best for: Bachelorette parties, quirky home bars, or novelty gift-givers.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Anyone needing serious, durable glassware for daily use or rough parties.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 5/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 6/10

The Beverage Aesthetic Test

Much like the blood mat, this glass sacrifices standard utility for a highly specific visual effect. Users mention the fragile, thin feel of the glass, causing anxiety when washing it by hand. It forces the liquid through a built-in spiral straw, offering a fun, unique way to drink dark red wines or cocktails. It is visually striking but demands careful handling.

βœ… The Win: Provides a highly unique, conversation-starting vessel for serving cocktails.
βœ… Standout Spec: The built-in glass straw pulls liquid from the very bottom of the glass.
❌ The Cleaning Nightmare: You absolutely must own a specialized, ultra-thin micro-brush to scrub the inside of the permanent glass straw.

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5. LAZ HOME Bathroom Faucet with Pull Out Sprayer

Best for: People who wash their hair in the sink or frequently bathe small pets.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Renters who are not permitted to change their plumbing fixtures.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 8/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 2/10

The Utility Upgrade

Moving from fragile glasses to solid plumbing hardware, this faucet drastically increases sink functionality. Buyers describe the smooth, heavy metallic glide of the sprayer head pulling out from the main base. It brings kitchen-level utility to the bathroom, allowing you to easily rinse down the entire sink bowl or wash a muddy dog’s paws without wrestling them into the tub.

βœ… The Win: Eliminates the awkward contortions required to wash your face or hair in a standard, fixed bathroom sink.
βœ… Standout Spec: Three distinct water modes (stream, spray, and pause) controlled directly on the pull-out head.
❌ The Hose Snag: The retractable hose weight can get tangled on P-traps and plumbing pipes under crowded vanity cabinets.

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6. QUIDAOSO Silicon Cup Holder for Shower

Best for: Anyone who enjoys a “shower beer” or a glass of wine while soaking in the tub.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People with highly textured, porous stone shower tiles.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 7/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 3/10

The Shower Convenience Audit

While the pull-out faucet handles cleaning, this silicone mount handles pure relaxation. Users note the surprisingly rigid, tacky grip of the silicone backing adhering to wet, glossy tiles. It securely holds heavy glass wine stems or aluminum cans, keeping your beverage safe from soapy water runoff. It is a cheap, highly specific luxury upgrade for long showers.

βœ… The Win: Safely holds your drink at eye level in the shower without risk of it slipping off a narrow ledge.
βœ… Standout Spec: Adhesive-free silicone backing that can be peeled off and moved without leaving residue.
❌ The Surface Limitation: It will only stick to perfectly smooth, non-porous surfaces like glass or glossy tile; it fails instantly on matte stone.

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7. RIDDIM Super Bros Illusion Night Light

Best for: Children’s bedrooms or nostalgic gamers wanting quirky mood lighting.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Anyone looking for a bright, functional reading lamp.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 6/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 4/10

The Nostalgia Check

Similar to the novelty cocktail glass, this lamp is purchased purely for aesthetic enjoyment. Buyers report the loud, iconic 8-bit “coin ding” sound effect that triggers every time you press down on the block. It serves as a fun, interactive night light that won’t blind you during a midnight trip to the bathroom. However, it relies entirely on a USB cable for power.

βœ… The Win: Provides dim, warm lighting paired with a highly satisfying, nostalgic interactive sound effect.
βœ… Standout Spec: Touch-activated top plate that triggers both the light and the audio.
❌ The Volume Control: There is no way to turn the sound off while keeping the light functional, making it annoying if you just want silent illumination.

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8. Yalsfowe Black Bathroom Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer & LED

Best for: Parents washing toddlers’ hands who want to ensure the water isn’t scalding hot.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Minimalists who prefer classic, analog bathroom fixtures without digital screens.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 7/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 4/10

The High-Tech Plumbing Test

Upgrading the concept of the previous pull-out faucet, this model adds a digital interface. Users mention the bright, glowing numbers that display the exact water temperature the second the water starts flowing. It relies on a hydroelectric generator inside the faucet, meaning it requires absolutely no batteries. It looks incredibly modern but introduces more complex parts that could eventually fail.

βœ… The Win: Visually confirms the water temperature instantly, preventing accidental burns.
βœ… Standout Spec: Battery-free LED display powered entirely by the kinetic energy of the water flow.
❌ The Fingerprint Magnet: The matte black finish shows hard water spots and soapy fingerprints almost immediately.

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9. Proox Double Shower Head with Built-in Valve

Best for: Couples who frequently shower together and fight over the single stream of warm water.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Homes with very low municipal water pressure.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 8/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 3/10

The Water Output Evaluation

While the smart faucet manages sink utility, this massive fixture dominates the shower. Buyers describe the heavy, drenching feel of the water when both rainfall heads are running simultaneously. It solves the issue of someone standing in the cold during a shared shower. The built-in diverter valve allows you to run either head individually or both at once.

βœ… The Win: Allows two people to stand under warm water simultaneously without cramping into one corner.
βœ… Standout Spec: A built-in diverter valve that doesn’t require complex in-wall plumbing to install.
❌ The Pressure Drop: Running both massive showerheads at the exact same time will noticeably cut your water pressure in half.

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10. Rinseroo Handheld Shower and Sink Attachment

Best for: Pet owners or parents who need to wash things in a sink lacking a sprayer hose.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People with square, oddly shaped, or highly angular modern faucets.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 8/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 2/10

The Temporary Utility Fix

If you can’t install a permanent pull-out faucet, this rubber sleeve offers a temporary workaround. Users note the extremely tight, stretchy resistance of the rubber connector when forcing it over a metal faucet spout. It instantly turns a rigid sink or showerhead into a 5-foot handheld sprayer, making it invaluable for washing dogs or cleaning the walls of a shower stall.

βœ… The Win: Converts any standard faucet into a flexible washing hose in three seconds without tools.
βœ… Standout Spec: Highly elastic connector sleeve that fits over most round faucets up to 5 inches in diameter.
❌ The Blow-Off Risk: If you turn the water pressure up too high, the rubber sleeve will forcefully launch off the faucet, spraying water everywhere.

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11. Foldable Bath Tub for Adult Portable Ice Tub

Best for: Biohackers, athletes, or renters with only a standing shower who desperately want a bath.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People with tiny bathrooms where a 52-inch tub simply won’t fit on the floor.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 7/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 4/10

The Space Reclamation Audit

While the bubble mat upgrades an existing tub, this product creates a tub out of thin air. Buyers mention the thick, vinyl-like smell of the plastic when first unpacking and assembling the support poles. It allows for deep, full-body soaking or ice baths in apartments that lack actual bathtubs. It folds down flat when not in use, hiding easily under a bed.

βœ… The Win: Provides a deep, functional soaking tub for homes that only have shower stalls.
βœ… Standout Spec: Included thermal lid that zips up around your neck to keep heat (or cold) trapped inside.
❌ The Draining Hassle: Because it sits flat on the floor, draining 50 gallons of water into a shower grate takes a painstakingly long time.

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12. PREMIUM Large Shower Head by Clear Shower XL

Best for: Tall individuals or those wanting a massive, heavy-drenching rainfall experience.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People looking for high-pressure, stinging massage jets.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 8/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 3/10

The Shower Upgrade Test

Contrasting the dual-head Proox model, this focuses on a single, massive sheet of water. Users describe the smooth, completely clear acrylic surface that makes it look like water is falling magically out of nowhere. Measuring 18 inches across, it covers your entire shoulder span easily. It requires a heavy-duty shower arm to support its weight once filled with water.

βœ… The Win: Delivers a true, full-body waterfall experience that standard 6-inch showerheads cannot match.
βœ… Standout Spec: Completely transparent acrylic body that visually disappears into the bathroom ceiling.
❌ The Weight Issue: It is incredibly heavy; if your shower arm isn’t securely anchored into a wall stud, this head will pull it down.

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13. Generic LED Ball Joint for Clear Shower XL

Best for: Owners of the Clear Shower XL who want fun, mood-setting colored lights in the water stream.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Anyone who does not own the specific Clear Shower XL head (this is just an accessory joint).

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 5/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 5/10

The Novelty Accessory Check

This small joint attaches to the massive acrylic showerhead mentioned previously. Buyers note the erratic, blinking flash of the LEDs changing colors based on the water temperature. Like the digital sink faucet, it uses an internal turbine to generate power without batteries. However, it is a highly specific accessory that adds more novelty than actual utility.

βœ… The Win: Illuminates a clear showerhead with colored light without requiring any batteries or wiring.
βœ… Standout Spec: Built-in hydroelectric turbine that powers the LEDs based on water flow.
❌ The Whining Noise: The internal turbine creates a high-pitched mechanical whine whenever the water is running.

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14. CYPL No Hooks Required Waffle Weave Shower Curtain

Best for: Anyone who hates wrestling with cheap metal shower rings that constantly fall off the rod.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People who love wildly colorful, highly decorative shower curtains.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 9/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 1/10

The Setup Evaluation

Stepping away from showerheads, this curtain fundamentally improves shower setup. Users report the satisfying, fast snap as the flexible plastic rings push directly over the installed shower rod. It completely eliminates the need to buy and thread separate shower hooks. The snap-in liner means you only wash the dirty inside layer, leaving the heavy waffle fabric hanging.

βœ… The Win: Installs in seconds without removing the shower rod or buying separate, annoying hooks.
βœ… Standout Spec: A built-in sheer mesh window at the top lets light in while maintaining privacy.
❌ The Sizing Constraint: The built-in rings are designed for standard rods; they will not fit over extremely thick or custom-built wooden rods.

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15. Talking Toilet Paper Spindle

Best for: Office pranksters or households with kids who constantly forget to flush or wash their hands.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Anyone looking for serious bathroom decor or quiet, peaceful restrooms.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 5/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 5/10

The Gag Gift Audit

Returning to the realm of pure novelty, this gadget replaces a standard bathroom spindle. Buyers mention the tinny, highly compressed sound quality of the 9-second recording playing back. It triggers automatically when the toilet paper roll is spun, making it a hilarious gag gift. While cheap, it often ends up forgotten in a drawer after a few weeks of use.

βœ… The Win: A cheap, highly effective prank that catches guests off guard when they use the bathroom.
βœ… Standout Spec: Easy record-and-replay button hidden directly on the spindle shaft.
❌ The Durability Risk: The plastic spindle is flimsy and easily crushes if someone accidentally leans their weight on the toilet paper roll.

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16. 2Pairs Warm Toilet Seat Cover Mat Plush Thick

Best for: Frugal shoppers who want the warmth of a seat cover without the bulk of a zippered pad.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Germaphobes who hate doing extra laundry.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 7/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 3/10

The Winter Alternative Check

Similar to the first item on our list, these pads prevent freezing contact with ceramic. Users describe the sticky, tacky feel of the electrostatic backing gripping the toilet seat. Unlike the zippered model, these are two separate pieces that simply stick to the top of the ring. They are easier to remove for washing but look noticeably cheaper.

βœ… The Win: Instantly insulates a cold toilet seat with a simple peel-and-stick application.
βœ… Standout Spec: Electrostatic clinging back leaves zero sticky adhesive residue on the seat when removed.
❌ The Peeling Flaw: Over time and multiple washes, the edges of the pads begin to curl up and lose their grip.

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17. Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Bowl Cleaning System

Best for: People who despise looking at gross, dirty toilet brushes sitting on their bathroom floor.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Eco-conscious consumers trying to eliminate single-use plastics and paper waste.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 8/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 2/10

The Hygiene Audit

While the seat pads provide comfort, this wand ensures the bowl stays sanitary. Buyers note the bright, artificial citrus smell that fills the room as the chemical pad dissolves in the water. It allows you to scrub the bowl and immediately flush the dirty pad away, meaning you never store a dripping, bacteria-filled brush in your bathroom. It is highly convenient but creates recurring costs.

βœ… The Win: Completely eliminates the disgusting chore of storing and cleaning a wet, dirty toilet brush.
βœ… Standout Spec: The cleaning pads are flushable and dissolve safely in standard plumbing systems.
❌ The Subscription Trap: You are forced to continually buy proprietary refill pads forever to keep using the wand.

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18. BN-LINK Indoor Countdown Timer

Best for: People who constantly forget to turn off curling irons, space heaters, or Christmas lights.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Tech enthusiasts who want smart-home, app-controlled plugs.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 9/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 1/10

The Safety Evaluation

Moving from hygiene to electrical safety, this plug is pure preventative utility. Users report the loud, mechanical click when pressing the tactile button to select a 15-minute or 1-hour countdown. It guarantees that dangerous, high-draw heat appliances shut off automatically if you rush out the door. It is vastly more reliable and simpler than messing with Wi-Fi smart plugs.

βœ… The Win: Prevents house fires and high electric bills by automatically killing power to forgotten hot tools.
βœ… Standout Spec: A dedicated repeat function that will automatically trigger the same cycle daily.
❌ The Outlet Blocking: The bulky, square design will frequently block the second socket on a standard wall outlet.

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19. Kizxtrsh Seat Cover Lifter Toilet Seat Handle

Best for: Shared bathrooms, public restrooms, or households with men and boys.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: Single-person households where the seat position rarely changes.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 8/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 2/10

The Contact Prevention Test

Continuing the trend of bathroom hygiene, this tiny handle solves a gross daily interaction. Buyers mention the firm, spongy resistance of the foam adhesive adhering the plastic tab to the underside of the seat. It provides a clean, protruding handle to lift the seat, completely eliminating the need to touch the underside of a potentially dirty toilet rim.

βœ… The Win: Allows you to lift and lower a toilet seat without touching the germ-covered ceramic.
βœ… Standout Spec: Includes multiple thick foam adhesive pads to fit under deeply curved toilet seats.
❌ The Cleaning Annoyance: The plastic tab creates an extra, awkward crevice that must be wiped down carefully when cleaning the toilet.

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20. LastSwab Reusable Cotton Swab

Best for: Eco-conscious consumers sick of throwing away hundreds of single-use Q-tips.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People with very wet ear wax, or those using swabs to apply precise makeup.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 6/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 5/10

The Waste Reduction Audit

Unlike the flushable toilet wand that creates waste, this tool attempts to eliminate it entirely. Users describe the stiff, slightly rubbery scrape of the textured silicone tip against their ear canal. It takes getting used to compared to soft cotton, but it washes clean instantly under hot water. While eco-friendly, it lacks the raw absorbency of traditional cotton swabs.

βœ… The Win: Replaces thousands of single-use cotton swabs, saving money and reducing landfill waste.
βœ… Standout Spec: Includes a durable, biodegradable carrying case for travel.
❌ The Absorbency Failure: Because it is silicone, it cannot absorb water; it only scrapes and pushes debris around.

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21. HairpinPal Magnetic Bobby Pin Holder

Best for: Dancers, gymnasts, or anyone who leaves bobby pins scattered across every surface.
⚠️ Who should SKIP this: People with very short hair who never use metal hair clips.

πŸ’Ž Steal Score: 9/10 | πŸ“‰ Regret Index: 1/10

The Organization Check

Ending on a highly specific organization tool, this bowl acts as a metal vacuum. Buyers note the sharp, metallic snap as dropped bobby pins aggressively fly toward the magnetic center of the bowl. It prevents pins from rusting on the sink edge or destroying the internal motor of your vacuum cleaner when dropped on the floor. It is a simple, flawless execution of a basic idea.

βœ… The Win: Instantly collects and organizes scattered bobby pins by simply sweeping the bowl over a surface.
βœ… Standout Spec: Powerful, centralized magnet that aligns all the pins in the same direction for easy grabbing.
❌ The Weight Issue: It is surprisingly heavy, making it slightly annoying to pack for air travel.

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The Verdict: How to Choose

  • For the Emergency Prepper: Get the waterBOB Bathtub Emergency Storage (Best Overall Security).
  • For the Daily Organizer: Get the Lay-n-Go Cosmo Drawstring Bag (Best Time Saver).
  • For the Safety Conscious: Get the BN-LINK Indoor Countdown Timer (Best Preventative Tool).

3 Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

  1. Proprietary Replacements: Products like the Scrubbing Bubbles Wand require you to continually buy specific, branded cleaning pads, creating a hidden, endless subscription cost.
  2. Appliance Installation: Buying high-end machines like the VALIRYO Body Dryer is only half the cost; paying an electrician to run safe, hardwired power in a wet bathroom can easily double your investment.
  3. The Novelty Tax: Hyper-specific novelty items (like the bloody mat or the talking toilet spindle) are fun for one weekend but quickly become drawer clutter, providing zero long-term ROI.

FAQ

Will the adhesive on shower rod holders damage my walls?

It depends heavily on the surface. The adhesive is industrial strength; it will peel cleanly off smooth tile or glass with the help of a hairdryer, but it will almost certainly rip the paint and paper off standard drywall.

Does the Rinseroo hose fit every single faucet?

No. While it stretches significantly, it only seals properly on round or mildly oval spouts. It will blow off instantly if attached to square, flat, or highly angular modern waterfall faucets.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your daily efficiency is about targeting your specific pain pointsβ€”whether that’s burning your hands on hot tools, freezing on a winter toilet seat, or dealing with scattered bobby pins. Skip the gimmicks and invest in highly practical, durable items that save you time, clear up your counters, and reduce daily frustrations. Remember that online pricing fluctuates frequently based on seasonal sales.

Check the latest prices and stock on Amazon via the links above.

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