Do the rulings on excretion apply only to the bathing area, and is it permissible to remember Allah when drinking there?

The "privy" (al-khala') where Allah is not to be mentioned is a place for relieving oneself. As for a place designated only for washing (ghusl (definition)) and ablution (wudu'), it does not take the same ruling; it is permissible to say the Basmalah there when performing ablution, washing, drinking, and eating, although it is preferable not to eat or drink there. It is commendable upon entering to put the left foot forward and upon exiting to put the right foot forward, because it is an impure place, and due to the saying of 'A'ishah, may Allah be pleased with her: "The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, used to like to start with the right in all his affairs: in his purification, his combing, and his wearing of sandals."