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Best Pleated Shades of 2026

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Rebecca Cantu

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Pleated shades are an excellent choice for those looking to add style and sophistication to their home decor. These window coverings offer a sleek, modern look that blends seamlessly with any design scheme. Pleated shades come in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures, making it easy to find the perfect match for any room. They are also highly functional, providing privacy, light control, and insulation. Pleated shades are easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want a hassle-free solution to their window covering needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Pleated Shades

#TOP 1

Redi Shade Blackout Pleated Paper Shade

Redi Shade Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Cover

Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Black, 36" W x 72" L, 6 Pack

The Redi Shade Blackout Pleated Paper Shade is a convenient and affordable window covering solution. With its easy trim-at-home installation, you can quickly achieve the perfect fit for your window frame without the need for tools. This shade blocks 99% of light, providing complete privacy and control over light and UV rays. The cordless design not only gives a clean look but also ensures child safety. Made of durable paper, this shade is resistant to yellowing and cracking from sun exposure. Whether used as a stand-alone solution or layered behind existing window treatments, the Redi Shade Blackout Shade is a reliable choice for bedrooms, children's rooms, and movie rooms.

9.9

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Total blackout effect
  • Easy installation
  • Affordable price
  • Customizable size
  • Lightweight material

What We Don't Like

  • Adhesive may need reinforcement
  • Somewhat flimsy construction

What Customers Say

"I was amazed by how completely these shades block out all light—total darkness! Installation was a breeze with the peel-and-stick adhesive, and I loved that I could trim them to fit each window perfectly. For the price, they’re an unbeatable quick fix for blackout needs, especially if you need a temporary solution for a lot of windows like I did."

"I needed a way to darken my toddler’s room quickly, and these shades delivered. They’re super simple to use and install—I just cut them to size and stuck them up. I do wish there were longer options available, but they still blocked out the morning sun enough for my little one to nap."

"These shades are fantastic at blocking sunlight and go up in seconds. I did notice the adhesive might not hold up over time, so I added tacks for extra security. For the price, they’re a great value and perfect for temporary or semi-permanent use. Just be careful if you need to raise and lower them often, as the material can tear if not handled gently."

#TOP 2

MYshade Temporary Blackout Paper Shades

  • MYshade
  • cf0329fc-ab69-4330-ab50-f57e19f6f21c
  • White
  • 36"W*72"H - 6 PC
MYshade Temporary Blackout Paper Shades Cover

MYshade 6 Pack Temporary Light Filtering Paper Shades for Windows,Paper Pleated Blinds with Adhesive,No Tools No Drilling Free Cut Size Temporary Room Darkening Shades(White, 36" W x 72" H)

Introducing MYshade Blackout Paper Shades, the perfect solution for temporary window treatment. Made of high-quality and durable paper, these shades block most UV rays and harmful dust, creating a comfortable environment for your home. With easy installation, simply cut the pleated paper shades to fit your window size and install in seconds without any tools or drilling. The unique support structure ensures consistent pleat spacing, giving you a perfect, tailored look. Choose from two colors, white for light filtering or black for blackout. Release your creativity by shaping the shades to fit your window design. Ideal for kitchens and homes in need of temporary shades.

9.8

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Customizable size
  • Good light blocking
  • Temporary or permanent use
  • Great value

What We Don't Like

  • Adhesive residue
  • May not last long-term

What Customers Say

"I’ve found these shades to be an excellent value and super easy to install. I like that they’re simple to cut to size and provide solid privacy both day and night. The strong adhesive keeps them in place, and they’re handy for both temporary and more lasting needs. I use them under my regular blinds for extra privacy near my neighbors. Overall, a versatile and convenient solution."

"I used these as a temporary fix while waiting for permanent shades, and they did the job well. The installation was a breeze, and I liked that they could be trimmed to fit my windows. The paper accordion design with clips made them easy to adjust. They provided enough privacy, and I was pleased with how well they stuck, though I did notice they were a bit tough to remove without tearing."

"These shades are perfect for blocking out light. They were extremely easy to put up and customize for both width and length. The clips are a clever alternative to traditional pulley systems, and I appreciate the complete blackout feature. After about five months, a couple of them started to come loose where they were stuck to the window, but they’ve held up well overall for a temporary solution."

#TOP 3

Redi Shade Cordless Pleated Fabric Shade

Redi Shade Cordless Pleated Fabric Shade Cover

Redi Shade No Tools Easy Lift Trim-at-Home Cordless Pleated Light Filtering Fabric Shade White, 36" W x 64" L, (Fits windows 19"- 36")

The Redi Shade Cordless Pleated Fabric Shade is a hassle-free window covering solution that enables easy installation and trimming without any tools. It features a cordless lift mechanism, making it safe for children and pets. The soft spun lace fabric gently filters light to provide privacy and UV protection. The rounded bottom rail and finished end caps give it a clean and crisp appearance. The shade can be trimmed to fit your windows with a straight-edged kitchen knife using the included patented trimming scale and guide.

9.6

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • No drilling required
  • Customizable size
  • Attractive appearance
  • Affordable option

What We Don't Like

  • Material feels lightweight
  • Occasional uneven hanging

What Customers Say

"I was searching for an affordable and convenient blind solution for my new house, and these did not disappoint. Installation was straightforward, and the ability to cut them to size made it simple to get the perfect fit. They provide privacy, filter sunlight, and look uniform from the outside. I appreciate that I didn't need any tools beyond a sharp edge for trimming. So far, they’ve performed well and definitely offer great value for the price."

"After reading many reviews, I decided to try these blinds and I’m glad I did. Cutting them to the right length was the only tricky part, but even that was manageable. The built-in measuring tape made sizing easier. Once installed, the blind sat perfectly straight, went up and down smoothly, and looked fantastic. It lets in just the right amount of light. I’m definitely planning to get more!"

"It only took a few minutes to trim and install these shades, and I’m impressed by how good they look. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a quick and stylish window covering."

#TOP 4

Changshade 6-Pack Light Filtering Pleated Paper Shades

  • Changshade
  • 12c78ead-5595-483a-a9fa-6d5eca7f0026
  • White
  • 36"W x 72"H- 6PC
Changshade 6-Pack Light Filtering Pleated Paper Shades Cover

Changshade 6 Pack Temporary Shades, Pleated Paper Blinds for Indoor Windows Cut to Size Adhesive Paper Shades No Tools No Drilling for Office, Bedroom, Living Room,36" W x 72" H,White

Changshade 6-Pack Light Filtering Pleated Paper Shades provide instant privacy, light filtering, and UV blocking, and are easy to install with peel and stick design. The cord-free design ensures a tangle-free look and creates a safer environment for kids and pets. These shades are versatile and can be cut to any size and can be adjusted to the desired level with attached clips. A must-have economical choice for outfitting every window and for travel purposes.

9.4

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Effective blackout
  • Strong adhesive
  • Simple to trim
  • Affordable temporary solution

What We Don't Like

  • Tough adhesive removal
  • Not for frequent adjustment

What Customers Say

"I was really impressed by how simple these blinds were to cut and hang—they stayed in place exactly as I needed. They blocked out light very effectively, and when I wanted more daylight, I could just raise them with the included clips. Perfect for short-term use!"

"I’ve used these several times for my new homes, and I’m always impressed by the high quality and how quickly they go up. The pre-attached 3M adhesive makes installation so easy, and trimming to fit different windows is a breeze. Great option for those who need window coverage fast!"

"Living in Minnesota, I was concerned these wouldn’t stay up on my cold window frames, but they’ve held strong for weeks. I love that they’re not see-through, even with direct light, and still allow some natural filtered light during the day. Definitely worth the purchase!"

#TOP 5

Changshade 6-Pack Cordless Pleated Paper Shades

  • Changshade
  • Pleated paper 36" * 72"
  • White
  • 36" x 72"-6PC
Changshade 6-Pack Cordless Pleated Paper Shades Cover

Changshade 6-Pack Pleated Paper Temporary Shades Cordless Light Filtering Cut to Size Temporary Paper Blinds for Indoor Windows of Office, Bedroom, Bathroom, Living Room, 36" W x 72" H, White

The Changshade Pleated Paper Shades offer a flexible solution for your window covering needs. You can easily trim the shades to fit any window size up to 36 by 72 inches, making them perfect for custom window shapes. Installation is a breeze since the shades come with 3M adhesive tape, allowing you to stick them on without any tools or damage to your window frames. These shades are versatile enough to fit various window shapes like rectangles or circles, giving you creative freedom. They also provide privacy and help block sunlight, protecting your room from UV rays while maintaining a fresh look without yellowing or cracking.

9.4

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Custom fit, cut-to-size
  • Affordable temporary solution
  • Effective light filtering
  • Child-safe cordless design

What We Don't Like

  • Adhesive removal mildly difficult
  • Paper durability not long-term

What Customers Say

"I was looking for a quick, affordable window covering and these shades totally delivered. Installation was a breeze, and being able to cut them to the perfect size made a huge difference. They let in plenty of natural light but still give me privacy, and I really appreciate the cordless design for safety. For anyone in need of a fast, low-cost solution, I can't recommend these enough."

"For me, these were a huge upgrade from the old blinds my cat destroyed. Super easy to put up, and the added clips make adjusting the length a cinch. The adhesive is really strong—just be sure you place them where you want, because they stick! They let the sun in without overheating the room. Great value all around."

"I'm in between renovations and didn't want to spend a lot on blinds right now. These paper shades look surprisingly good and are so budget-friendly. Yes, they're only paper, but for a temporary solution, they work perfectly. Some minor issues with the adhesive pulling paint, but that's a small trade-off for the money saved. I've bought multiple boxes and recommend them to anyone who needs a quick fix."

#TOP 6

Maritown Cordless No Drill Pleated Paper Blinds

  • Maritown
  • Maritown
  • White - 1 Pack
  • 24"W x 59"H
Maritown Cordless No Drill Pleated Paper Blinds Cover

Window Blinds Cordless No Drill Cut to Size Clip On Stick On Self Adhesive Temporary Blinds Pleated Paper Blinds for Windows Doors Shades for Home Nursery Bedroom Kitchen Bathroom

The Maritown Cordless Paper Blinds offer a simple and damage-free way to cover your windows. You can easily install them by cutting to the right size, peeling the backing, and sticking them in place without any drilling or tools, which means no holes or marks on your walls. Made from thick, high-quality non-woven fabric, these blinds are waterproof, dustproof, and breathable, keeping your space clean and comfortable. With two clips included, you can adjust the height of the blinds to control the amount of light entering your room. The cordless design also makes them safe for homes with children and pets.

9.2

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Light filtering and privacy
  • Durable fabric material
  • Budget-friendly price
  • Attractive appearance

What We Don't Like

  • Limited sizing options
  • Adhesive not repositionable

What Customers Say

"I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and quick the installation was—just peel and stick! The fabric feels sturdy and offers great privacy while still letting in light. They're a big step up from paper shades and look quite nice in my home office. For the price, I couldn't ask for more."

"These shades are a fantastic value, and I love how well they filter sunlight—perfect for protecting my furniture. The material is strong and durable. I appreciate the color options, and trimming them was easy. Overall, they do exactly what I need at a great price."

"I needed a quick, budget-friendly solution for my basement windows, and these delivered! The dark gray color is rich and stylish, and they're super easy to install and trim. Even after repositioning them, they stuck well. I wish they came in more colors, but I'm very happy with how they look and function."

#TOP 7

Redi Shade No Tools Original Arch Pleated Fabric Shade

Redi Shade No Tools Original Arch Pleated Fabric Shade Cover

Redi Shade No Tools Original Arch Light Blocking Pleated Fabric Shade White, 72" W x 36" H

The Redi Shade Arch Pleated is designed for easy, tool-free installation, making it perfect for anyone who wants a hassle-free window upgrade. You can trim the shade at home to get a perfect fit for your half-round arch windows, saving you time and effort. The peel-and-stick design means you won’t need drills, screws, or brackets, so you can install it quickly and without damage to your walls. Plus, it helps block heat, sunlight, and harmful UV rays, providing both privacy and better light control in your room. This shade is made from a durable fabric that also reflects heat, helping you keep your space comfortable.

9.2

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Excellent light filtering
  • Customizable fit
  • Good value
  • Attractive appearance

What We Don't Like

  • Limited long-term durability
  • Not washable

What Customers Say

"In my last two homes, I had half moon windows facing east or west, and these shades were perfect for filtering sunlight. The installation was simple and the instructions were clear. They lasted about seven years under direct sun before they wore out, which I think is reasonable considering the price and conditions. I appreciated how well they blocked the sun and how quick it was to put them up."

"I bought this to replace an old, dusty shade because my window gets a lot of sun and the room overheats. This new shade has a reflective side to repel sunlight and works great with my blackout curtain to keep the room cool. It was easy to cut to size with a box cutter. Although the package was missing a small plastic piece, customer service quickly sent a replacement, so everything worked out well."

"I installed this in my office's arched window to block glare from the sun. My window isn’t a perfect semicircle, so I customized the fit by measuring and making angled cuts. The instructions offered helpful options for imperfect arches. Now, the shade diffuses the light perfectly, making it much more comfortable to work at my desk. The fabric looks great for the price, and I’m satisfied with the result."

#TOP 8

FADOTY 100% Blackout Window Cover Film

  • FADOTY
  • Blackout-118L-BL
  • Black
  • 57"W x 118"H
FADOTY 100% Blackout Window Cover Film Cover

FADOTY Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Portable 100% Black Out Window Cover Film, Cuttable Blackout Shades Fabric Sheet, No Drill Window Blinds, Sun Heat Light Blocker for Travel Media Dorm, 57'' W

The FADOTY Blackout Curtains provide a complete blackout solution, perfect if you need to sleep during the day or want to keep your room dark and cool. You can easily install these curtains by measuring, cutting, and sticking them on your window—no tools or drilling required. They come in a large size that you can cut to fit any window shape, making them versatile for bedrooms, offices, or even your RV. Plus, the heat-reflective layers help reduce indoor heat by blocking sunlight, which can keep your space cooler and lower your energy bills during hot weather.

9.1

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Customizable sizing
  • Effective light blocking
  • Temperature regulation
  • Strong Velcro adhesion

What We Don't Like

  • Minor edge light leakage
  • Velcro may require adjustment

What Customers Say

"As someone who suffers from migraines, I've tried countless blackout curtains, but nothing worked until I found this. I can cut it to any shape I need and it truly blocks all light, even around tricky window edges. The Velcro system makes putting it up and adjusting it a breeze. In seconds, my room goes from bright to pitch black, which is exactly what I need."

"After struggling with sheer so-called blackout curtains, I gave this a try. I have oddly-shaped windows and an AC unit, but the large sheets and included stapler made it easy to get a perfect fit. My bedroom is now completely dark even during the day, and the Velcro has held up with no issues. Best blackout solution I've ever used, especially for the price."

"Installation was much easier than static cling options, and it blocks more light than curtains. The material is thin but durable, easy to cut, and didn't fray. The sticky dots are strong but can be repositioned if needed. It made a noticeable difference in cooling my room, and I'm impressed with the overall quality."

#TOP 9

Changshade 6-Pack Adhesive Pleated Paper Blinds

Changshade 6-Pack Adhesive Pleated Paper Blinds Cover

Changshade 6-Pack Temporary Pleated Paper Blinds for Window, Cut to Size Adhesive Paper Shades, Portable Room Darkening Stick on Pleated Blinds, No Drilling and Easy to Install, 36" W x 72" H, White

The Changshade Adhesive Paper Blinds offer an easy way to keep your home comfortable and private. Made from durable paper, these blinds block harsh sunlight and reduce up to 99% of UV rays, helping protect your furniture and floors from fading. Installation is simple and quick—you just peel and stick the blinds to your window frame, no tools or drilling needed, making them perfect for renters or travelers. You can also trim the blinds with scissors to fit any window size perfectly, ensuring full coverage without gaps. Plus, the cordless design keeps your family safe, especially children and pets, while allowing you to adjust the height easily using the included clips.

9.0

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Customizable fit
  • Budget-friendly
  • Effective privacy
  • Light blocking

What We Don't Like

  • Accordion shape may sag
  • Limited long-term durability

What Customers Say

"I replaced my old, dirty blinds with these, and it was honestly one of the best decisions I've made for my home. They were so simple to cut and install—took me about five minutes per window. What surprised me most is how great they look; no one can tell they're paper blinds, and they provide complete privacy. For the cost, it's a fantastic solution that looks brand new even after a month. Highly recommend if you want a fast, affordable window fix."

"As someone who deals with migraines, I needed a way to block out sunlight effectively without spending a fortune. These blinds have been a lifesaver—especially the black ones, which keep my room pitch dark when needed. They're easy to install, stick well, and are a great temporary or even long-term solution for privacy and light control. The accordion style does start to sag over years, but for the price, they're hard to beat."

"With multiple cats at home, my regular blinds never lasted—my pets were always breaking them. These paper blinds are so much more durable than I expected and have held up well for over a month now. Installation was a breeze, and the price is spot on. If you're a pet owner who’s tired of replacing standard blinds, I’d definitely suggest these. Just make sure to clean the window area well for the best adhesive hold."

#TOP 10

Redi Shade Original Light Filtering Pleated Shade

Redi Shade Original Light Filtering Pleated Shade Cover

Redi Shade No Tools Original Light Filtering Pleated Fabric Shade White, 48" W x 72" L, 2 Pack

The Redi Shade Light Filtering is designed to softly filter sunlight, helping you maintain privacy while reducing glare and protecting your room from harmful UV rays. Its cordless design means you won’t have to worry about tangled cords or safety hazards, making it a great choice for homes with children. You can easily adjust the shade using the included clips to control how much light enters your space. Plus, it installs without any tools, offering a quick and hassle-free setup that fits perfectly whether you’re in a house, apartment, dorm, or even an RV.

8.8

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Affordable price
  • Pet friendly
  • Customizable size
  • Provides privacy with light

What We Don't Like

  • Basic-looking clips
  • Material may feel thin

What Customers Say

"I've got multiple pets at home and was tired of constantly replacing my window treatments. These shades have held up well, even with my cats and dogs around. I was able to cut them easily to fit my windows, and installation was a breeze. They look great, especially with a valance, and have proven to be a practical, low-cost solution."

"For the price, these shades are unbeatable. They let in plenty of light while still providing privacy, and are much friendlier for my cats than traditional blinds. Installation took just minutes, and the fact that I could cut them to any length was super convenient. Highly recommend if you want something simple, affordable, and pet-proof!"

"I was looking for a quick, inexpensive way to cover my windows without spending a fortune. These shades look good, are easy to put up, and give my room a clean, modern look. They're made of thin material, so they let in a soft light, which I actually enjoy. Perfect for a temporary fix or if you're on a budget."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are pleated shades the same as honeycomb shades?

No, pleated shades and honeycomb shades are different. Honeycomb shades have a unique honeycomb construction that offers more energy efficiency, while pleated shades do not have this insulating design.

2. Are pleated shades in style?

Yes, pleated shades are stylish and versatile window treatments. They come in a variety of colors, designs, and patterns, making them a great choice for any room and matching various decor styles.

3. What is the R value of a pleated shade?

The R-value of a pleated shade is approximately 2.20. In comparison, a single cellular shade typically has an R-value ranging from 3.50 to 4.30, offering higher insulation.

4. What are the cons of honeycomb shades?

One disadvantage of honeycomb shades is that dust and dirt can accumulate in the cells, requiring thorough cleaning. However, this can be managed with regular maintenance.

5. Do pleated blinds get dusty?

Yes, like all blinds, pleated blinds can attract dust and dirt over time. Regular cleaning is recommended to keep them looking their best.

6. Are pleated blinds any good?

Yes, pleated blinds are beneficial. They can improve energy efficiency by trapping air in honeycomb pockets, keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

7. How long do pleated blinds last?

The average lifespan of pleated blinds is around seven to eight years, but some homeowners may choose to replace them sooner.

8. What window shades have the highest R-value?

Insulated cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, typically have the highest R-values among window coverings. These shades contain one or more air layers in a honeycomb cross-section, providing excellent insulation.

9. What shades are best for insulation?

Cellular (honeycomb) shades are considered the best for insulation. Their innovative design traps air at the window, helping to keep rooms warm in winter and cool in summer.

Editor's Notes

During our pleated shade research, we found 24 pleated shade products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 300,039 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pleated shades list. We found that most customers choose pleated shades with an average price of $30.61.

The pleated shades are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pleated shades, including Redi Shade, MYshade, Changshade, Maritown, FADOTY. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Pleated Shades Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Redi Shade Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Cover #TOP 2 MYshade Temporary Blackout Paper Shades Cover #TOP 3 Redi Shade Cordless Pleated Fabric Shade Cover #TOP 4 Changshade 6-Pack Light Filtering Pleated Paper Shades Cover #TOP 5 Changshade 6-Pack Cordless Pleated Paper Shades Cover #TOP 6 Maritown Cordless No Drill Pleated Paper Blinds Cover #TOP 7 Redi Shade No Tools Original Arch Pleated Fabric Shade Cover #TOP 8 FADOTY 100% Blackout Window Cover Film Cover #TOP 9 Changshade 6-Pack Adhesive Pleated Paper Blinds Cover #TOP 10 Redi Shade Original Light Filtering Pleated Shade Cover
Brand Redi Shade MYshade Redi Shade Changshade Changshade Maritown Redi Shade FADOTY Changshade Redi Shade
Material Paper Paper Polyester Paper Paper Fabric Polyester Fabric Paper Polyester
Color Black White White White White White - 1 Pack White Black White White
Opacity Blackout Semi-Sheer Inches Light Filtering Semi-Sheer Sheer Inches Semi-Sheer Light Blocking Blackout Inches Semi-Sheer Light Filtering
Recommended Uses For Product Indoor Indoor Window Covering Indoor, Outdoor Indoor, Outdoor Indoor - Indoor Indoor Indoor
Room Type Home Office, Nursery Kitchen Bedroom, Home Office, Living Room, Nursery Bathroom, Bedroom, Home Office, Kids Room, Living Room Bathroom, Bedroom, Home Office, Kitchen, Living Room Bathroom, Dining Room, Home Office, Kitchen - Bedroom, Dining Room, Home Office, Kitchen, Nursery Home Office Bedroom, Den, Living Room, Office
Operation Mode Cordless Lift Manual Cordless Lift Manual Manual Manual - Manual Manual Manual
Shape Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular - Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular
Pattern Solid Solid Solid Solid Solid Solid - Solid Solid Solid
Item Weight 1.75 Pounds 1.36 Kilograms 1.26 pounds 2.2 Pounds 2.57 Pounds 4.93 Ounces - 1.21 Pounds 1.38 Kilograms 15.16 Ounces
Product Care Instructions Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only - Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only Spot Clean Only
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.4
9.4
9.2
9.2
9.1
9.0
8.8
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