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The Best Cooling Comforters of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Out of the 34 options we tested, these lightweight and breathable picks are the best for hot sleepers.

The Sijo Clima Tech TempTune Comforter in a bedroom setting
Photo:

Real Simple / Taylor Rock

For hot sleepers and those who frequently suffer from night sweats, having a cooling comforter is essential for quality REM sleep. According to the research, people typically sleep better in a cooler environment.

“As your body temperature naturally decreases at night, a process that helps you become drowsy and fall asleep, the bedding you choose is essential in creating your ideal, personalized sleep experience,” says Byron Golub, vice president of product and merchandising at Saatva. “If the person in bed tends to sleep hot or has a chronic or temporary condition, such as menopause, or lives in a warmer climate, a cooler comforter is something to consider to enhance their sleep experience.”

We tested 34 cooling comforters and duvet inserts in our lab and assessed them on quality, texture, durability, breathability, and value. In addition to Golub, we spoke to Parima Ijaz, founder of Pure Parima, and Frej Lewenhaupt, textile expert and co-founder and CEO of Steamery, for expert advice on how to pick a cooling comforter that’s right for you.

What Stands Out
  • The comforter’s exterior felt extremely cool to the touch.

What Could Be Improved
  • The slick texture might take some time to get used to.

Hot sleepers are in for a treat with our Best Overall pick, the Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter. We nicknamed it “The Cucumber” because its coolness was simply unforgettable. The comforter is made from fine yarn fibers, which the brand says is 90 times thinner than human hair strands. The result? Not only did we find it to be moisture-wicking, but the exterior was also extremely cool and remained that way for a long time. 

The construction is solid: All seams were completely enclosed and sturdy. Even when we attempted to pick at them, they remained intact. Also, because the fill is tightly sewn in, it did not shift around when we tossed and turned during testing. It made no noise when we moved it around, either.

While the comforter looks quite flat, the surface felt buttery-smooth and a little velvety. It’s an ideal blanket for those who have pets because pet hair won’t stick to it and can be easily removed. When it’s time to clean, it can be machine-washed and dried in the dryer. We observed that it dried quickly and was able to do it in one cycle. After two months of use, there were no changes in color or loose strings. The comforter maintained its refreshing feel, keeping us comfortably warm yet cooling us when we got too hot.

To us, the exterior felt slick like a swimsuit, which isn’t surprising since it’s a mix of spandex and nylon. This comforter’s fill consists of Tencel and sorona fibers (a plant-based polymer), which is non-toxic and safe for those with sensitive skin. Because the material feels different from the other comforters on our list, we suggest trying it out to see if the texture is right for you. But for the price and quality, we think it’s worth it.

Cover Material: Nylon, spandex | Fill Material: Tencel, sorona | Size Range: Twin, queen, king | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry

What Stands Out
  • We found the affordable comforter to be cozy yet lightweight.

What Could Be Improved
  • Since it's made with down alternative, the fabric isn't as breathable as more natural materials.

For a cooling comforter that won’t break the bank, consider the Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter. In our testing, we found this comforter to be of good quality despite its low price. It was lightweight yet cozy, so much so that we didn’t feel the need to kick the blanket off in the middle of the night. We were impressed that it somehow struck the perfect balance, keeping our body temperature just right, regardless of the weather. As a bonus, it was silent as we tossed and turned.

Unlike many of the other comforters on our list, this one is made of microfiber and filled with siliconized hollow fibers instead of real down. You’ll be able to use it year-round, and it comes with sturdy box-stitching to maintain quality and keep the fill in place. Plus, it comes in many colors, so you can even use it without a duvet cover. Just keep in mind that the siliconized fibers may not be as breathable as natural materials, though we think the lightweight design makes up for it.

Care is easy, too. It’s machine-washable and can be thrown in the dryer as long as you select a low heat setting. It held up impressively well in the washing machine—even after six months of use, there was no fading or wear and tear. Overall, we found this affordable comforter to be super soft and cooling—even if it’s not the fluffiest comforter around. 

Cover Material: Microfiber | Fill Material: Siliconized hollow fiber | Size Range: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine wash, air dry, or tumble dry

What Stands Out
  • This is one of the quietest comforters we've ever used.

What Could Be Improved
  • We found the comforter a bit heavy, lacking the traditional cloud-like feel.

This award-winning comforter features Tencel eucalyptus fibers in its fill and on the outside shell for maximum coolness.  Plus, it has a luxurious 300-thread count to envelop your body in total comfort. The insert felt pillowy soft, yet not too thick and poofy, which is key to keeping you cool overnight.

Throughout testing, the comforter warmed us up, but not in a bad way—it felt just right, like a warm hug that wasn’t too heavy or hot. It actually struck the perfect balance between warmth and breathability. Since the comforter is naturally weighted, we think it's ideal for colder months. Surprisingly, it wasn't as lofty as we expected, so those who prefer a more cloud-like comforter may want to look elsewhere. Still, we found the weight cozy to snuggle up with.

After six months of use, the comforter has consistently met our standards. The fill stayed in place and made no sound, even when we tossed and turned. We would even go as far as to say it's the quietest comforter we've ever slept with. It's worth noting that the manufacturer recommends dry cleaning, making this a more high-maintenance buy. It did hold up in our washing machine, but we were a bit hesitant to wash it at home.

Duvet covers are sold separately, which we strongly recommend buying. Buffy offers the first seven nights free and will only charge you if you keep it. It also comes with a 50-night trial, during which you can return it for a full refund if you don’t like it.

Cover Material: Tencel lyocell | Fill Material: Tencel lyocell fiber | Size Range: Twin/twin XL, full/queen, king/California King | Care: Dry clean recommended

What Stands Out
  • This luxurious cooling comforter felt like it belonged in a hotel.

What Could Be Improved
  • The care instructions were a bit complicated.

For hot sleepers who desire luxurious bedding that won’t make them feel sweaty, a cooling comforter like this one from Cozy Earth will be a game changer. In our testing, this bamboo viscose option stood out for its comfort, coolness, and breathability. It felt so high quality that we thought it could be in a five-star hotel. 

The comforter is made of bamboo viscose (it also comes in a silk version), which gives it a bit of weight while still wicking away moisture and preventing you from overheating. In our tests, we found its fabric to be soft and durable, but at the same time, it has more heft than other comforters we tested. This allows it to trap cold air better, and the fill shifted less than thinner comforters. Even after one month of use, its breathability has continued to amaze us. It also has loops all over the insert, so you could easily attach it to any duvet cover.

Keep in mind that the comforter is on the wrinkly side, and the care instructions are complicated (the brand recommends spot cleaning and dry cleaning). For this reason, it may not be the best option for pet owners who need to be able to machine-wash their comforters often. That said, we do love that it comes with a canvas tote for storage.

Cover Material: Viscose from bamboo | Fill Material: Viscose from bamboo | Size Range: Twin, queen/full, king | Care: Spot clean and dry clean recommended

What Stands Out
  • We found this comforter fluffy yet comforting, making it versatile enough for all-season use.

What Could Be Improved
  • Since it's not machine-washable, it's a bit higher maintenance than other picks on our list.

If you’re in the market for a down comforter you can use year-round, we recommend this one from Brooklinen. In our testing, we found this cooling comforter to be super soft and fluffy, which felt very comforting. We found it to be the Goldilocks of comforters—it's not too hot, not too cold, but just right.

This comforter is crafted with duck and geese feather clusters inside a cotton sateen shell, making it both lightweight and extremely comfortable. It also features a baffle-box construction that helps to evenly distribute the warmth through the entire comforter. 

The down comforter comes in three weights, including lightweight (650 fill power), all-season (700 fill power), and ultra-warm (750 fill power) options. We tested the all-season comforter, and we think it’s phenomenal in both warm and cool temperatures. Its lofty design is another bonus—it easily fills up a duvet cover and gives your bed a fluffy appearance.

After six months of use, we have no complaints. Just note that this down comforter requires extra care when cleaning. Since it’s not machine-washable, it has to be dry cleaned or spot cleaned. Luckily, stains came out with minimal effort in our tests.

Cover Material: Cotton sateen | Fill Material: Down cluster fill | Size Range: Twin/twin XL, full/queen, king/California king | Care: Spot clean or dry clean

What Stands Out
  • This 300-count insert kept us warm without overheating.

What Could Be Improved
  • The filling didn’t feel like it was evenly distributed.

This Pottery Barn duvet insert features a recycled plastic bottle fill and has a cotton exterior that’s moisture-wicking and keeps you cool. It has a medium thickness with a 300 thread count and solid construction all over. We really enjoyed sleeping with it, as it was able to keep us warm without overheating. There are two comfort levels available: midweight and ultra plush.

While we found the blanket to be super fluffy, the filling was not distributed evenly, which made it feel lumpy in some places. However, the price is decent, which is beneficial for anyone buying a cooling comforter for the first time. 

Overall, the comforter felt cool to the touch and allowed our skin to breathe. After two months of use, it maintained its breathability. We think it's ideal for those seeking the look and feel of a plush comforter without the heat. You also can buy a duvet cover for it separately, which we tested, as well. The duvet insert fit smoothly and perfectly into the cover without us having to squeeze it in. The comforter comes in three sizes: twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king.

Cover Material: Cotton | Fill Material: Recycled plastic polyester | Size Range: Twin/twin XL, full/queen, king/California king | Care: Machine wash

Best Lightweight

IKEA Stjärnstarr Duvet

IKEA STJÄRNSTARR Cool Duvet
PHOTO: IKEA
What Stands Out
  • The washing process was a breeze and led to no changes in quality.

What Could Be Improved
  • The comforter felt too thin and not well insulated.

This IKEA comforter was a bit of an anomaly for us—it’s extremely thin and, in all honesty, looked more like a blanket than a comforter. It is by far the thinnest comforter we have ever tested. However, there are a few silver linings that make it worth considering. First, it costs under $50, which is unbeatable in terms of price. Second, because the filling is so thin, the comforter is cooling by default. A word of warning though: Temper your expectations. 

The filling consists of a mixture of viscose and moisture-absorbing lyocell fibers, which cause the comforter to be cooling and temperature-regulating as you sleep. Unfortunately, because it was so thin, it didn’t warm us up in the slightest while we slept. Despite having socks on, we were still freezing, so our night wasn’t exactly comfortable. 

The comforter is machine-washable, and we were able to dry it in one convenient cycle in the drier. Washing it also made it fluff up more, which was a pleasant surprise. After washing it throughout our six-months testing period, we noticed no changes in texture or quality. We think it's ideal if you live in a hot climate, but we wouldn’t recommend it as a real comforter if you live in cold, wintry climates. (If you live in Minnesota, you could pass on this one.) It comes in full/queen, twin, and king sizes.

Cover Material: Lyocell, cotton | Fill Material: Polyester, viscose | Size Range: Twin, full/queen, king | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry

What Stands Out
  • This high-quality comforter retains its shape thanks to well-distributed weight and solid construction.

What Could Be Improved
  • While it moderates body temperature well, it may not be cooling enough for the hottest of sleepers.

If you want your bed at home to feel like a bed at a hotel, it might be worth splurging on a high-end comforter, like Fluff Co's down-blended product. We found this comforter to bring a certain level of luxury to our bed, thanks to sturdy construction and even weight distribution that allows it to retain crispness to its structure throughout the night. This works particularly well for a cooling comforter, as it doesn't feel too constricting, allowing heat to escape.

Speaking of its cooling capabilities, it kept our body temperature at a comfortable level throughout the testing period—save for a few occasions—so it might be best for warm sleepers rather than truly hot sleepers. One other potential downside to note is that its crisp quality does lend itself to crinkling noise, so it's not the quietest comforter out there.

Cover material: Cotton | Fill material: Down, sonora | Size range: Queen, king | Care: Dry clean only

What Stands Out
  • The comforter’s lightweight fill allows it to easily fit into washing machines.

What Could Be Improved
  • The all-over stitching reduces the sleek look of the comforter and might prohibit some from using it without a duvet cover.

This Saatva lightweight comforter is perfect for hot sleepers who want the coziness of a comforter without any of the bulk. Its fill is not lofty—it's perhaps an inch thick when fluffed—but it provides just enough weight to feel like you're sleeping beneath a comforter. One benefit of this comforter being so lightweight is that it's easy to fit in a washing machine and dryer. And, of course, it's very breathable, adding to its cooling factor.

While we appreciate the softness of the comforter's cotton cover, it does have stitching all across it. This is to keep the fill from shifting during use, and it works well. But the downside is that the comforter doesn't have a particularly clean, seamless look to it. We prefer to use it with a duvet cover for that reason.

Cover material: Cotton | Fill material: Fiber and lyocell | Size range: Twin/twin XL, full/queen, king/California king | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

What Stands Out
  • The comforter's temperature-regulating technology makes it ideal for year-round use, and also beneficial for bedmates with differing sleep temperature tolerances.

What Could Be Improved
  • The recommended care method for this comforter is dry cleaning, which can be time- and cost-prohibitive.

Sijo's Clima Tech TempTune Comforter uses a blend of fibers that evenly distributes body heat, as well as wicks moisture. As such, hot sleepers are cooled down, whereas cold sleepers are warmed up. This is particularly helpful when one bedmate runs hot and the other runs cold, but it's also useful to account for the change in seasons. This is an all-in-one comforter, so you won't need to buy a winter comforter and a summer comforter.

Another standout feature of this comforter is the fact that it's silent. Many comforters crinkle or rustle as you move them, but we found this one to be impressively quiet, which is ideal for light sleepers. We also loved that this comforter's fill maintained even dispersion throughout the night. However, the only major pain point with this comforter is maintenance, as it’s highly recommended that you dry-clean it. In terms of effort and cost, this can certainly be a major con for those who prefer to toss their comforters in the wash.

Cover material: Tencel lyocell and thermo-conducting mica nylon | Fill material: Blend of thermo-regulating Clima cooling tech fiber, moisture-wicking Tencel lyocell fiber, and recycled polyester | Size range: Full/queen, king/California king | Care: Dry clean recommended

What Stands Out
  • Though its fill is thin, this comforter provides just enough weight to feel substantial yet unoppressive.

What Could Be Improved
  • On very hot nights, this comforter's cooling capabilities are limited.

For sleepers who don’t want to feel like they're enveloped in a fluffy cloud, the thin The Company Store Cool Zzz Premium Comforter is an excellent solution. It lies quite flat, but it isn’t totally weightless, so we still felt like we were beneath a blanket. Given its thinness, this comforter fits into most washing machines and dryers, making maintenance as easy as can be.

And don't mistake thinness for shabby construction—we found this comforter to be extremely durable, handling fairly heavy-duty use (read: pets) without showing signs of wear and tear. Overall, this blanket does have cooling capabilities on most nights, but we found that it isn’t as effective during very hot weather. That being said, we recommend trying to negate this by incorporating breathable, moisture-wicking sheets or a duvet cover.

Cover material: Cotton percale | Fill material: Recycled polyester fiber | Size range: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king| Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Final Verdict

Our top pick is the Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter because it kept us cool and sweat-free throughout the night. We were also impressed with its spandex exterior, which felt velvety-smooth and cool to the touch. If you’re looking for a duvet that’s more wallet-friendly but still lightweight, we recommend the Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter.

Our Testing Process

We tested several dozen comforters in the real world, evaluating their performance across several key points. First, we assessed the quality and texture of the comforter before using it. This included reviewing the construction of the comforter, from the durability of the seams to the loft of the fill to the overall weight. We also tested the fabric against our skin for comfort. 

Then, as we slept with the comforter during the testing period, we evaluated further criteria for quality, including the dispersion of the fill and the noise levels when shifting in bed. We also reviewed breathability, particularly as it relates to regulating temperature and keeping cool.

To evaluate ease of maintenance, we laundered the comforter first based on the manufacturer's recommendation, then in any way we saw fit. Once the comforters were washed, we studied their texture and softness, and compared them to pre-washing observations. We also kept in mind which care instructions (our own judgment vs the manufacturer’s recommendations) seemed to work best in terms of effort, time, and effectiveness.

At the end of the testing process, we once again studied the quality of the comforter, noting any wear and tear from regular use. Then we evaluated the overall value of the comforter compared to its price. We also ranked the comforter against others we've tested, highlighting both pros and cons of each product.

Person folding a Utopia Bedding All-Season Down Alternative Comforter next to a bed

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

How to Shop for Cooling Comforters Like a Pro

Cover Material

The best cooling comforters have covers made from bamboo, eucalyptus, cotton, and microfiber. Bamboo and eucalyptus comforters are derived from natural materials that are more breathable than other fabrics, which helps regulate your body temperature by wicking away sweat. They are notably cool to the touch and are generally softer than cotton.

“Bamboo is made from the pulp of bamboo grass and is popular not only for its soft feel, but also because it's hypoallergenic and highly breathable,” Golub says. “Bamboo can take in three times more water than its weight, so it's incredibly effective at wicking moisture away from your body.”

“Cotton, the most popular sheet fabric today, offers great airflow and moisture-wicking properties,” Golub says. “Opt for organic cotton to get the best breathability. Because organic cotton plants are made without pesticides, they yield longer-staple fibers, resulting in a softer, more breathable fabric.”

Golub adds that linen is another great sheet material for a cool night's sleep: “The highest-quality linen is made from French or Belgian flax, which grows taller than flax in other places. The taller the flax plant, the longer the fibers are taken from these plants to produce yarn. Longer fibers mean better breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Linen can absorb up to 20% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet, meaning it will keep you dry and comfortable throughout the night.”

Finally, there is lyocell which comes from the pulp of eucalyptus trees and is most commonly known by its brand name Tencel. “Tencel is composed of many tiny hydrophilic (i.e., water-loving) fibers, which naturally absorb moisture from your skin as you sleep,” he says.

In our testing, we found that the Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter Tencel and plant-based sorona filling made the blanket feel extremely cool, while the Buffy Breeze Comforter felt soft and silky due to its eucalyptus shell.

Fill Material

Natural fibers are much better at providing a cooling effect than synthetic fabrics, such as polyester. “Polyester and other synthetic fibers can be more lightweight, but they also trap bad odors, making them more high maintenance to clean,” Lewenhaupt says.

So, if you go the natural route, shop for comforters with fill materials like geese or duck down, silk, cotton, or wool. You can also opt for a down alternative comforter which is usually made from polyester or microfiber. “They're designed to mimic the soft, fluffy feel of down at a lower price point,” Golub says. “Depending on the type of down alternative used, you’ll find that some are created for warmth, while others are engineered to be more breathable.”

Another type of fill material that keeps you dry is lyocell, which is a semi-synthetic fabric commonly made from eucalyptus wood fibers (though it can also be made from other woods, like oak, bamboo, and birch). You’ll also see it referred to as the brand name Tencel. Lastly, you can add wool to the list. According to Golub, wool helps regulate temperature, keeping you warm in the winter and cool during hot weather.

Fill Power

According to Ijaz, fill power is important because it influences the weight, temperature, and overall coziness of your comforter. It measures the fluffiness or loft of down insulation. If your fill power is too low, it means the weight needs to increase in order to provide more warmth,” Ijaz says. But if you’re looking for a lightweight summer comforter, then you don’t necessarily want more warmth. 

“A fill power of 600 or higher is ideal for a cozy winter comforter, but keep in mind that the price will increase as the fill power does. If you prefer a cooler sleeping environment, a lower fill power of around 500 may be more suitable,” Golub says. “Comforters with a high fill power typically have a lower fill weight, as less material is needed to create a warm covering. It's worth noting that anything below a fill power of 500 is better suited for summer or warmer climates.”

The all-season duvet inserts that we tested and found to be excellent for hot sleepers had a fill power of around 700, such as Brooklinen’s Down Comforter and Pottery Barn Hydrocool Moisture-Wicking Down Alternative Duvet Insert. But if you want something even more lightweight, opt for a comforter on the lower end of that range.

Care

“Although many people may not realize it, you can wash your comforters and duvets in the washer,” Ijaz says. “That said, be sure to use cold water and wash on a gentle cycle in a front-load machine.” You also should keep them separate from other items you may be washing. 

When it comes to drying your comforters, Ijaz recommends using a low setting and wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets to help redistribute the down inside. “Avoid using harsh liquids, [powders], or excess detergent as this can permanently damage the comforter and strip away the shell,” she says. 

“It’s always a good idea to spot treat if you have a stain rather than washing the whole textile to save time and energy,” Lewenhaupt says. “Since some fillings can clump together, keep an eye on your comforter in the dryer and occasionally shake it out to spread the filling. Tumble dryer balls are a great way to keep the fluffiness of your comforter.”

You also don’t want to use fabric softeners when washing comforters as they can reduce fluffiness. To ensure the best results when cleaning your comforter, you should always carefully read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Close up of the Pottery Barn Hydrocool Down-Alternative Duvet Insert

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

More Cooling Comforters to Consider

White Noise All Season Down Alternative Comforter: True to its name, this down alternative comforter is ideal for all season use. It's lightweight and cool to the touch on its own, while the duvet cover adds comfortable warmth to. It does bunch up a bit within the duvet cover, but we didn't view this as a dealbreaker.

Buffy Cloud Comforter: The Buffy Cloud Comforter almost made it onto our list because of how soft and silky it felt during testing. This comforter is ideal for summer and winter nights. However, our testing showed that the material is not really stain-resistant, so be careful with food and drinks if you’re eating in bed.

Person adjusting Buffy Cloud Comforter while its laying on a bed with purple sheets

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

Questions You Might Ask

Should hot sleepers avoid sleeping with comforters and duvets?

If you’re a hot sleeper, you may find that sleeping with a comforter or duvet might feel too warm at night. However, this doesn't mean you have to give up comforters and duvets altogether. Look for comforters made of breathable and moisture-wicking materials like cotton, eucalyptus, and bamboo. These materials absorb moisture better than many synthetic materials, so they feel cooler. You can also look at comforter weight, as some may simply be too heavy.

“Natural materials offer the best breathability and airflow,” Golub says. “Cotton, linen, bamboo, and eucalyptus are the best materials for cooler sleep. Ultimately, the sleeper can determine the number of layers necessary and when a top sheet provides sufficient coverage or comfort needed to fall and stay asleep.”

Lewenhaupt adds that loftiness could contribute to heat as well, noting that “thinner comforters with less padding can also keep you cool and comfortable while sleeping."

What other types of cooling bedding are there? 

In addition to cooling comforters, there are different kinds of cooling bedding you can buy to prevent overheating. Cooling bed sheets are a great place to start, but we also recommend outfitting your bed with a cooling pillow, cooling mattress topper, and cooling blanket for the best results.

Can a duvet cover be cooling?

Yes! Duvet covers that are made from materials such as cotton or bamboo can help you stay dry and cool at night. Ijaz recommends percale duvet covers for people who prefer cooling bedding.

“A percale weave follows a one-over, one-under, tight-knit weave pattern that creates a coarser fabric,” she says. “This results in a crisp, matte, and very cool finish, which is perfect for hot sleepers.” 

Besides being cooling, there is another reason why Lewenhaupt recommends the use of duvet covers with inserts. “You can more easily wash the thin layer and reserve washing the full comforter for deeper cleans,” he says.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Nor’adila Hepburn, a contributing writer for Real Simple, and  Stefanie Waldek, a freelance writer with a decade of experience writing home, travel, and lifestyle content. To put together this list, we tested over 30 comforters and assessed them on quality, texture, durability, breathability, and value. We also spoke to Parima Ijaz, founder of Pure Parima, Byron Golub, vice president of product and merchandising at Saatva, and Frej Lewenhaupt, textile expert and co-founder and CEO of Steamery, for expert advice on how to pick a cooling comforter that’s right for you.

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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