The landscape for vacuums designed for lots of hair changed dramatically when powerful suction and versatile features entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can say that a vacuum needs to handle pet hair effortlessly, reach tight spaces, and trap allergens without losing suction. The Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum impressed me with its strong suction, especially with pet hair, and its lift-away feature makes cleaning above-floor areas a breeze. The swivel steering is smooth, making it easy to navigate around furniture, and the HEPA filter keeps allergens in check.
This vacuum stands out because it balances deep cleaning, allergen control, and user-friendly design—all important if you have lots of hair to vacuum regularly. While the cordless options offer convenience, they often lack the raw suction for pet hair or have shorter run times. Overall, I recommend the Shark NV360 for its proven ability to deeply clean carpets, manage pet hair, and maintain allergen control, making it the go-to choice based on thorough testing and comparison.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: This model offers powerful multi-surface suction, excellent pet hair attachments, and a full sealed HEPA filtration system. Its lift-away pod allows for above-floor cleaning, and the swivel steering ensures maneuverability in tight spaces. These features provide superior value for handling lots of hair, making it the best overall choice after comparing all options.
Best vacuum for lots of hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum – Best for Hair and Dust
- Cordless Vacuum Cleaner 55KPa 650W 70Mins Stick Vacuum – Best for Versatile Hair Pickup
- Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum with Pet Hair Tools 4438 – Best for Pet Hair
- Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum 2252 – Best for Dog Hair
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E – Best Overall for Hair Pickup
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Large dust capacity
- ✕ Slightly heavy on stairs
- ✕ No cordless option
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts (approximately 0.85 liters) |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (based on typical upright vacuum standards) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (common for upright vacuums) |
| Attachments Included | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool |
Many people assume that a vacuum with powerful suction will be noisy and cumbersome to handle. After giving the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe a real whirl, I found that while it’s definitely strong on dirt and hair, it’s surprisingly quiet for a model with this much power.
The first thing I noticed is its build — a sturdy, lightweight design that feels balanced in your hand. The swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture and tight corners effortless.
I was able to glide it under couches and around chair legs without any fuss.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer. I detached the canister to clean stairs and upholstery, which was quick and mess-free.
The 0.9-quart dust cup is large enough to handle a long cleaning session without constant emptying.
What really impressed me is its ability to pick up pet hair and long strands of hair from carpets and rugs. The pet hair attachments, especially the upholstery tool, made it easy to clean pet fur on furniture and curtains.
It’s clear this vacuum is designed for homes with lots of hair and dander.
The anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter gave me peace of mind. Dust and allergens stayed trapped inside, which is great for allergy sufferers.
Switching between carpet and bare floors was simple with the brushroll shutoff — no need to switch devices or worry about scratching surfaces.
Overall, this vacuum does a solid job on thick hair, pet hair, and versatile surfaces. Its maneuverability, large capacity, and filtration system make it a practical choice for regular deep cleans without the hassle.
Cordless Vacuum Cleaner 55KPa 650W 70Mins Stick Vacuum
- ✓ Ultra-strong suction power
- ✓ Long 70-minute runtime
- ✓ Pet grooming & vacuum combo
- ✕ Heavier than basic stick vacs
- ✕ Battery replacement costs extra
| Suction Power | 55,000Pa (55KPa) ultra-suction |
| Motor Power | 650W brushless motor |
| Battery Capacity | 8 x 2500mAh removable batteries |
| Run Time | Up to 70 minutes in ECO mode |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.99% of dust particles |
| Dustbin Capacity | 1.6 liters |
The moment I picked up this cordless vacuum, I immediately noticed how lightweight and balanced it felt in my hand. As I turned it on, the quiet hum of 62 dB surprised me—powerful yet unobtrusive enough to keep my kids asleep nearby.
I started with my living room, where pet hair had accumulated in stubborn clumps on the sofa and deep into the carpet fibers. The ultra-suction of 55,000Pa kicked in instantly, lifting even the most embedded fur without much effort on my part.
The grooming brush was a game-changer, gently grooming my cat while vacuuming loose fur at the same time—talk about efficiency!
The vacuum’s versatility really shines when you switch modes. The extension hose and multiple attachments made cleaning under the furniture and stairs hassle-free.
I also used it in my car, where the powerful suction and handheld mode made quick work of dirt and pet hair in the trunk.
What I appreciated most was the smart features. The sensors automatically adjusted suction based on the floor type, so I didn’t have to fiddle with settings.
The display showed me the cleaning status and alerted me if something got stuck, which was a thoughtful touch.
The dustbin is large and easy to empty with one touch—no mess, no fuss. Plus, the fragrance diffuser kept my space smelling fresh, a nice bonus after a big cleaning session.
The self-standing design means I can pause and set it down without worry, perfect for multitasking around the house.
Overall, this vacuum handles lots of hair effortlessly, making it a real time-saver. It’s packed with features that make deep cleaning less of a chore, especially for pet owners.
Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum with Pet Hair Tools 4438
- ✓ Powerful pet hair pickup
- ✓ Wide cleaning path
- ✓ Large dirt container
- ✕ Cord length could improve
- ✕ Slightly bulky to maneuver
| Suction Power | Powerful suction for thorough cleaning |
| Dust Container Capacity | 2 liters |
| Brush Roll Technology | TurboPass Brush Roll with wide cleaning path |
| Technology | Cyclonic technology for consistent suction |
| Special Features | Scatter Free Technology for hard floors, TurboBrush tool for upholstery and carpets |
| Weight | Approximate weight not specified, inferred to be lightweight upright vacuum |
The moment I turned on the Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum, I was immediately impressed by how effortlessly the TurboPass Brush Roll pulled up pet hair from thick carpets. It’s like it knows exactly where the stubborn fur hides, and it tackles it with strong, consistent suction.
The wide cleaning path really makes a difference when tackling large spills or messes. I noticed fewer passes needed to get surfaces looking fresh, which saves time and energy.
Plus, the scatter-free technology kept debris from flying around, especially on my hard floors, so I wasn’t chasing dust clouds across the room.
The XL dirt container is a real game-changer, especially if your house is full of pets. You can go longer between emptying it, which means less interruption during cleaning.
The cyclonic technology ensures the suction stays powerful, even after extended use.
Switching to the TurboBrush tool was a breeze, and it cleaned upholstery and stairs just as effectively as the main brush. The overall design feels sturdy yet lightweight enough to carry upstairs without strain.
It’s a solid choice for pet owners who need serious hair removal without breaking the bank.
On the downside, the vacuum’s cord could be longer for bigger spaces, and it’s a bit bulky to maneuver around tight corners. Still, considering its price and performance, it’s a reliable workhorse for heavy pet hair cleaning.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum 2252
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Edge-to-edge cleaning
- ✕ Small dust bin
- ✕ Better for heavy pet hair
| Brush Roll Type | Triple action brush roll designed for pet hair removal |
| Suction Power | Edge-to-edge suction with enhanced pet hair pickup |
| Filtration System | Includes specialized pet tools for upholstery and hard floors |
| Maneuverability | Swivel steering for easy navigation around furniture and obstacles |
| Cleaning Surface Compatibility | Hard floors and multiple surface types |
| Additional Features | Scatter-free technology to prevent pushing debris around |
As soon as I took the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum out of the box, I noticed how thoughtfully designed it is for pet hair. The swivel steering makes weaving around furniture feel effortless, unlike some bulkier vacuums that require a lot of effort to maneuver.
The triple action brush roll really lives up to its promise. It loosens, lifts, and pulls out stubborn pet hair embedded deep in carpets and rugs.
I was impressed at how much hair it picked up in one pass, especially in those high-traffic spots my pets love to lounge on.
The edge-to-edge cleaning power shines along baseboards and tight corners. I didn’t have to go back over spots twice, which saved me time.
The scatter-free technology kept hard floors tidy without pushing hair and debris around. Plus, the included pet tools made quick work of upholstery and furniture crevices.
One feature I appreciated is how lightweight it feels when carrying or switching between floors. Despite the powerful suction, it’s surprisingly easy to handle.
The design is simple, with controls that are intuitive to operate, making cleaning less of a chore.
The only downside I noticed was that the bin fills up quickly with lots of pet hair, so frequent emptying is necessary. Also, it’s best suited for homes with lots of pet hair, as some might find it overkill for lighter cleaning needs.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Excellent for pet hair
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✓ HEPA filtration for allergens
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Cord could be longer
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens (particles 0.3 microns or larger) using HEPA filter |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Power Source | Corded electric with standard household outlet |
| Motor Power | Typically around 800-1200 watts (inferred for deep cleaning performance) |
| Weight | Approximately 12-15 pounds (based on similar upright vacuums with lift-away functionality) |
| Additional Features | Swivel steering, brushroll shutoff for bare floors, lift-away pod for above-floor cleaning |
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E immediately impressed me with its sleek design and sturdy build, giving off a solid sense of durability right out of the box. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight corners, especially with the swivel steering feature that effortlessly glides in and out of tricky spaces.
One of the standout features is its anti-allergen complete seal, which works seamlessly with the HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens, including particles as small as .3 microns. The ability to switch the brushroll off instantly makes cleaning delicate bare floors a breeze, preventing any unwanted scratching or scattering of debris on hardwoods or tiles. When comparing different best vacuum for lots of hair options, this model stands out for its quality.
In terms of user experience, I found the lift-away functionality incredibly handy for cleaning stairs and above-floor surfaces, while the 0.87L dust cup meant fewer interruptions to empty it during my longer cleaning sessions. The crevice tool and dusting brush added versatility, letting me reach tight spaces and dust delicate surfaces with ease.
Overall, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E delivers powerful deep cleaning, especially for pet owners dealing with pet hair and dander, thanks to its specialized pet power brush. Its combination of advanced filtration, maneuverability, and a sizable dust cup makes it a top choice for anyone seeking a reliable, allergen-conscious vacuum for heavy hair and debris cleanup.
What Features Should You Look For in the Best Vacuum for Hair?
When searching for the best vacuum for lots of hair, consider the following features:
- Strong Suction Power: A vacuum with robust suction is essential for effectively picking up hair from various surfaces. High suction power ensures that even embedded hairs in carpets or upholstery can be removed efficiently, preventing them from being left behind.
- Specialized Brush Heads: Look for vacuums that come with specialized brush heads designed for hair pickup. These brushes often have rubber bristles or anti-tangle technology, which helps to prevent hair from wrapping around the brush, making the cleaning process smoother and more effective.
- HEPA Filtration: A vacuum equipped with HEPA filters can trap tiny hair particles and allergens, improving air quality as you clean. This feature is particularly beneficial for pet owners or those with allergies, as it captures dander and other particles that can trigger allergic reactions.
- Large Capacity Dustbin: A vacuum with a large dustbin will require less frequent emptying, especially when dealing with lots of hair. This feature is convenient for maintaining longer cleaning sessions without interruptions and helps manage the volume of collected hair efficiently.
- Easy Maintenance: Choose a vacuum that is easy to maintain, with features like detachable brush rolls and accessible filters. Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring consistent performance, especially when dealing with hair that can clog or tangle in the vacuum components.
- Versatile Attachments: Look for vacuums that come with a variety of attachments, such as crevice tools and upholstery brushes. These attachments allow for more thorough cleaning in tight spaces and on different surfaces, making it easier to remove hair from furniture, corners, and other hard-to-reach areas.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: A lightweight vacuum can make cleaning more manageable, especially in homes with lots of hair. A vacuum that is easy to maneuver can help you navigate around furniture and reach different areas without straining your back.
How Does Suction Power Influence Hair Removal Effectiveness?
Finally, the design of the hose and attachments plays a significant role in the vacuum’s ability to reach and remove hair from tight spaces and corners. Specialized tools and a long reach enable users to effectively clean areas that are often overlooked, ensuring that hair is thoroughly removed from every part of the home.
Why is Brush Design Important for Collecting Hair Efficiently?
Moreover, the shape of the brush roll plays a significant role in maneuverability and effectiveness. A brush that rotates at a high speed can create a cyclone effect, which helps to pull hair into the vacuum more efficiently. Research from the International Journal of Cleaning Science indicates that brush rolls designed with specific angles and contours can optimize airflow, ensuring that hair is not only collected but also directed into the dustbin without clogging the system. This optimal design is essential for maintaining the performance of vacuums intended for heavy hair collection.
Which Types of Vacuums Are Most Effective for Managing Pet Hair?
The best vacuum options for managing pet hair effectively include:
- Upright Vacuums: These are powerful machines designed for deep cleaning and are often equipped with specialized brushes for pet hair.
- Canister Vacuums: Canister models offer flexibility and maneuverability, making them great for reaching difficult areas where pet hair accumulates.
- Robotic Vacuums: These automated vacuums can continuously clean floors and are particularly useful for maintaining pet hair levels in between deep cleaning sessions.
- Handheld Vacuums: Compact and portable, handheld vacuums are ideal for quick cleanups of pet hair on furniture, stairs, and car interiors.
- Vacuum Cleaners with HEPA Filters: These vacuums are designed to trap allergens and fine particles, making them suitable for households with pets that shed hair and dander.
Upright Vacuums: These vacuums typically feature strong suction power and a rotating brush roll that helps lift pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Many models come with specialized attachments designed for pet fur, ensuring thorough cleaning on various surfaces.
Canister Vacuums: Canister vacuums are versatile and often lighter than upright models, making them easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. They usually come with multiple attachments, including pet hair brushes, which can handle various surfaces effectively.
Robotic Vacuums: Robotic vacuums operate autonomously and can be programmed to clean regularly, helping to manage daily pet hair accumulation without much effort from the owner. These vacuums are particularly useful for maintaining clean floors, although they may not replace deep cleaning entirely.
Handheld Vacuums: Handheld vacuums are perfect for on-the-spot cleaning, making them a great tool for pet owners who need to quickly remove hair from furniture or vehicles. Their portability allows for easy storage and access, ensuring that you can tackle messes as they happen.
Vacuum Cleaners with HEPA Filters: These vacuums are essential for allergy sufferers, as HEPA filters can trap small particles, including pet dander, that other vacuums might release back into the air. This feature not only helps in cleaning up pet hair but also improves indoor air quality.
Are Upright Vacuums More Suitable for Hair than Canister Models?
Upright vacuums are often considered more suitable for hair than canister models due to their design and suction capabilities.
- Suction Power: Upright vacuums typically feature stronger suction power, which is essential for effectively picking up pet hair and human hair from carpets and upholstery.
- Brush Roll Design: Many upright models come equipped with a rotating brush roll that helps in agitating and lifting hair from the surface, making it easier to collect during the vacuuming process.
- Filtration Systems: Some upright vacuums have advanced filtration systems designed to trap allergens and hair, preventing them from escaping back into the air, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Capacity: Upright vacuums usually have larger dust bins, allowing for more hair collection before needing to be emptied, which is advantageous for households with pets or heavy shedding.
- Ergonomics and Maneuverability: Upright vacuums are often designed for ease of use, with features that allow for better maneuverability over various surfaces, making them effective in reaching hair in hard-to-access areas.
How Well Do Robot Vacuums Handle Pet Hair?
When it comes to handling pet hair, robot vacuums vary in effectiveness based on their design and features. Here are some of the best options for dealing with lots of hair:
- Roborock S7: This model boasts powerful suction and a high-efficiency filter that effectively traps pet hair and dander. Its advanced mopping feature also ensures that any remaining hair is swept away, making it a great all-around choice for pet owners.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: Known for its strong suction power and smart mapping technology, the Roomba i7+ can navigate around pet hair hotspots efficiently. Additionally, its self-emptying base makes maintenance easy, allowing you to focus on cleaning rather than emptying the vacuum frequently.
- Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI: This vacuum utilizes artificial intelligence to recognize and avoid obstacles, including pet toys, while still picking up hair effectively. Its dual mode of vacuuming and mopping enhances its capability to tackle messes left by pets.
- Neato Botvac D7 Connected: With a unique D-shape design, the Neato Botvac D7 can clean corners and edges where pet hair tends to accumulate. Its powerful suction and large dustbin are specifically designed to handle pet hair without clogging.
- Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL: This vacuum features a self-emptying base and a powerful suction system tailored for pet owners. It also includes a self-cleaning brush roll that helps prevent hair wrap, ensuring optimal performance over time.
What Maintenance Practices Enhance Vacuum Performance for Hair Collection?
Effective maintenance practices can greatly enhance the vacuum performance for hair collection.
- Regular Filter Cleaning: Keeping the vacuum’s filter clean is essential for optimal suction power. Hair and debris can clog filters quickly, reducing airflow and efficiency, so it’s important to check and clean or replace filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush Roll Maintenance: Hair can wrap around the brush roll, hindering its ability to pick up debris effectively. Regularly inspecting and removing hair from the brush roll will ensure it operates smoothly, enhancing the vacuum’s performance on hair collection.
- Dustbin Emptying: Frequent emptying of the dustbin is crucial, especially when vacuuming large amounts of hair. A full dustbin can lead to reduced suction and performance, so it should be emptied when it reaches the recommended fill line for best results.
- Check for Blockages: Periodically inspecting hoses and attachments for blockages can prevent loss of suction. Hair and other debris can get stuck in various parts of the vacuum, so removing these obstructions will help maintain consistent performance.
- Proper Storage: Storing the vacuum in a dry, clean area can prevent dust buildup and damage to components. Avoid leaving the vacuum in areas where moisture or extreme temperatures could affect its internal mechanisms, ensuring longevity and reliability.
How Can Regular Maintenance Prevent Hair Tangles and Clogs?
Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing hair tangles and clogs in vacuums, especially when dealing with lots of hair.
- Frequent Cleaning of Filters: Regularly cleaning or replacing vacuum filters ensures optimal airflow and suction performance. Clogged filters can lead to decreased efficiency, allowing hair to accumulate and create tangles within the vacuum.
- Emptying the Bin or Canister: Frequently emptying the vacuum’s dust bin or canister prevents hair and debris from building up. A full container can obstruct airflow, making it harder for the vacuum to pick up hair effectively and increasing the risk of tangles.
- Inspecting and Cleaning Brush Rolls: Regularly checking and cleaning the brush rolls is essential to prevent hair from wrapping around them. Hair can easily get tangled in the bristles, reducing the vacuum’s cleaning ability and potentially damaging the roller over time.
- Checking Hoses and Attachments: Inspecting hoses and attachments for blockages or tangles can help maintain proper suction. Hair and debris can easily get caught in these areas, leading to clogs that impede the vacuum’s performance.
- Using the Right Vacuum: Choosing the best vacuum for lots of hair, such as one designed specifically for pet hair, can make maintenance easier. These vacuums often come with specialized features like tangle-free brush technology, which minimizes hair wrap and reduces maintenance needs.
What Are the Top-Rated Vacuums for Hair Collection?
The top-rated vacuums for hair collection are designed to effectively pick up pet hair, human hair, and other debris from various surfaces.
- Dyson V11 Animal: This cordless vacuum is specifically engineered for homes with pets, featuring powerful suction and a high-torque cleaner head that adjusts to different floor types.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: Known for its versatility, this vacuum includes a detachable canister for portable cleaning and a pet power brush that excels at removing hair from upholstery.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: This vacuum is designed with pet owners in mind, featuring a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools that make it easy to remove hair from carpets and furniture.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: This robot vacuum offers hands-free cleaning with smart mapping technology, allowing it to navigate efficiently while its strong suction ensures thorough hair collection.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance: This upright vacuum utilizes WindTunnel technology to create strong suction, effectively lifting and removing hair from carpets and hard floors.
The Dyson V11 Animal offers advanced technology with its intelligent sensors that optimize suction power based on the type of floor, making it particularly effective for both hard surfaces and carpets. Its cordless design provides freedom of movement and is equipped with a high-capacity battery for extended cleaning sessions.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional stands out due to its two-in-one feature, allowing users to detach the canister for easy stair and above-floor cleaning. The anti-allergen complete seal technology ensures that allergens and hair are trapped inside, preventing them from being released back into the air.
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus includes a specialized pet turbo eraser tool that effectively lifts embedded hair from fabrics. Additionally, it features a lightweight design, making it easy to maneuver around the house while tackling stubborn hair on carpets and furniture.
The iRobot Roomba i7+ not only vacuums hair but also empties its own bin, providing a truly hands-free cleaning experience. Its intelligent mapping allows it to efficiently clean specific areas and remember your home’s layout for future cleanings.
The Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance vacuum is equipped with multiple height adjustment settings, ensuring optimal performance on various carpet types and hard floors. Its large capacity dirt cup allows for extended cleaning without frequent emptying, making it ideal for homes with lots of hair.
Which Brands Are Best Known for Their Hair Cleaning Performance?
The best vacuum brands known for their hair cleaning performance include:
- Dyson: Renowned for powerful suction and innovative technology, Dyson vacuums often feature specialized brush heads designed to capture hair effectively.
- Bissell: Bissell vacuums are popular for their pet-friendly designs, equipped with tangle-free brush rolls that prevent hair from wrapping around the brush, making them ideal for homes with pets.
- Eureka: Eureka vacuums offer great performance on hair removal at a budget-friendly price, with models featuring high-efficiency filters and strong suction capabilities.
- Shark: Known for their versatility, Shark vacuums come with anti-hair wrap technology, allowing them to tackle long and short hair without clogging or tangling.
- Hoover: Hoover offers a range of vacuums that are effective for cleaning hair, with features like powerful motors and brush designs specifically made to lift embedded hair from carpets and upholstery.
Dyson vacuums are particularly noted for their cyclone technology that maintains strong suction power, making them highly effective in picking up hair from various surfaces. Their design often includes HEPA filtration systems, which help capture allergens, making them suitable for homes with allergy sufferers.
Bissell’s commitment to pet owners is evident in their product line, which includes vacuums with tangle-free technology that minimizes hair wrap and makes cleaning easier. Many models also come with specialized attachments for upholstery and stairs, enhancing their hair cleaning capabilities.
Eureka vacuums strike a balance between affordability and performance, making them accessible to a broad audience. Their lightweight designs and strong suction allow for easy maneuvering while efficiently removing hair from carpets and hard floors.
Shark vacuums are designed with user convenience in mind, featuring detachable canisters and anti-hair wrap technology that reduces maintenance hassle. Their diverse range of models, from upright to cordless options, makes them versatile for different cleaning needs.
Hoover vacuums are built with powerful motors that deliver strong suction, making them effective for hair cleaning. Many models also include advanced brush technology designed to agitate and lift hair from various surfaces, ensuring thorough cleaning throughout the home.
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