When it comes to quality sleep, finding the perfect pillow can feel like a lifelong search. We’re bombarded with claims about advanced foam, neck-aligning technology, and pillow shapes that supposedly cater to every sleeping position under the sun.
Enter the Derila Pillow, a memory foam pillow claiming to help you sleep better, align your spine, and relieve neck and shoulder pain. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s break down my experience and see if it’s worth investing in.
The short answer: you might want to think twice before buying this pillow. With mixed reviews across the board, some customers report dissatisfaction over its thin design, size, and comfort level.
Let’s take a closer look at why the Derila might not be the miracle solution it claims to be.
My Experience With Derila Pillow
When I tried the Derila Pillow, I was eager to see if it could finally help my neck pain.
The first surprise was the size; it’s surprisingly compact and thin, much smaller than expected.
When I unpacked it, the pillow fluffed up to only a couple of inches, which was concerning.
It felt more like a padded envelope than the substantial support I wanted in a pillow.
Sleeping on it, I could feel the softness of the memory foam, but it didn’t offer the support I needed. The thin design meant that my head was too low, even when I used it as directed.
Plus, the idea of rotating the pillow for different sleeping positions didn’t work for me; I tend to move around at night, and it’s unrealistic to readjust a pillow every time I change positions.
Another downside was the return process. I reached out to customer service after realizing it wasn’t for me, and they informed me that returns would need to go to Lithuania, even though it shipped from a local address.
This added cost and inconvenience made the whole experience frustrating.
Overall, the Derila just didn’t meet my expectations for a supportive pillow, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who needs something substantial. It might work for some who prefer a low-profile pillow, but if you’re after real neck support and comfort, there are far better options out there.
Pros of the Derila Pillow
It’s important to cover the positive aspects of this pillow since a few features might work for certain users. Here’s what might appeal:
- Compact Size: If you prefer a low-profile pillow or something travel-friendly, the Derila’s compact design could be a perk. Some buyers note that it’s convenient for on-the-go use.
- Soft Memory Foam: While the density isn’t high, the memory foam material itself is soft to the touch and easy to wash.
- Ergonomic Shape: The pillow’s curve, designed to fit the natural curve of your neck, might help maintain alignment, especially for back sleepers.
However, these pros come with asterisks, as they might not align with the needs of those looking for a genuinely supportive pillow.
Cons of The Derila Pillow
Let’s dig into some of the downsides that several users, myself included, encountered with the Derila Pillow:
- Too Thin for Effective Support: One of the biggest complaints is the thickness. Despite the ergonomic shape, the thinness limits its ability to provide substantial neck and head support. You may find yourself stacking it on top of another pillow, which defeats its purpose.
- Inconsistent Comfort: A frequent issue is that the pillow feels underwhelming in terms of comfort. Some find it too small or lacking the density needed to properly relieve pressure points, especially if you’re used to thicker pillows.
- Difficult Return Process: If you decide it’s not for you, returning the Derila can be a hassle. Multiple users report that customer support directs them to return items internationally, even if they were shipped from a domestic address. This not only makes returns expensive but also creates an extra hurdle.
- Unsuitable for Combo Sleepers: If you switch positions frequently during the night, the Derila’s “rotate-as-you-sleep” recommendation isn’t practical. Moving it around for different sleep positions can be disruptive and frustrating.
Maintenance Tips For The Derila Pillow
Maintaining your pillow can help you get the best performance out of it. Here are some tips if you decide to keep the Derila:
- Air Out Regularly: Since memory foam can trap heat and absorb odors, airing out your pillow every week can help maintain freshness.
- Use a Protective Cover: The Derila comes with a washable cover, but adding an extra pillowcase can protect it from oils and dust. This simple step can extend the pillow’s lifespan.
- Wash the Cover Frequently: Make sure to wash the cover every couple of weeks, as body oils and sweat accumulate over time.
- Avoid Moisture: Memory foam and moisture don’t mix well. Avoid washing the foam itself, and stick to spot-cleaning if needed.
Comparing The Derila Pillow With Top Competitors
Finding the right pillow often means testing a few options to see which really meets your needs. Here’s a closer look at how the Derila Pillow measures up against some highly-rated options: the Serenity by Tempur-Pedic Pillow, Coop Eden Pillow, and Dosaze Pillow.
Each of these competitors has unique features that make them better suited for specific comfort and support needs.
- Serenity by Tempur-Pedic Pillow
Tempur-Pedic’s Serenity pillow is designed with high-density memory foam, which sets it apart as a firm, supportive choice ideal for those who need reliable neck and shoulder alignment.
Where the Derila’s thinner, less dense foam can feel unsupportive for many, the Serenity offers a stable, cushioned feel that holds its shape throughout the night. This makes it a better fit for those seeking substantial neck support and pressure relief.
While the Serenity costs more, its durability and comfort often justify the investment for those with chronic neck pain.
- Coop Eden Pillow
The Coop Eden Pillow is a standout due to its fully adjustable loft, allowing users to add or remove foam fill to achieve their desired firmness and thickness.
This feature alone gives it a major advantage over the Derila’s one-size-fits-all design.
Side, back, and stomach sleepers can all customize the Eden Pillow to support their unique needs, which is particularly valuable if you tend to switch sleep positions throughout the night.
The Eden’s foam is also infused with cooling gel, a major plus for hot sleepers who find the Derila foam retains too much heat.
- Dosaze Pillow
The Dosaze Pillow is designed with a contoured ergonomic shape specifically for spinal alignment, targeting neck and shoulder pain with focused support.
Unlike the Derila’s thin profile, which leaves some users feeling undersupported, the Dosaze provides a stable, structured base for the head and neck.
It’s ideal for back sleepers and those who suffer from neck tension, as the contour shape encourages proper posture while sleeping.
The Dosaze’s higher-density memory foam offers a longer-lasting solution that molds to your body without flattening, which is a common issue reported with the Derila.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In short, it depends on your personal preference and sleeping needs. For those who need a firm, supportive pillow that keeps the neck aligned, the Derila might fall short. Its thin profile and compact size often don’t provide enough support for people looking for a true neck-relief pillow. Some users appreciate its softness, but overall, many find it lacking in firmness.
Chiropractors often recommend supportive pillows that help maintain spinal alignment, like those from Tempur-Pedic, Coop Home Goods, or Saatva. Adjustable pillows with a customizable loft can be great for this, as they allow for a tailored experience and help relieve pressure points better than one-size-fits-all options like the Derila.
The Derila Pillow is made in Europe, with return policies that often involve shipping items back to Lithuania. This can be challenging for international customers as it adds to the hassle and expense of returns.
The best pillow varies depending on your sleeping position, preferences, and specific needs. Generally, high-density memory foam pillows, adjustable pillows from brands like Coop Home Goods, or ergonomic pillows from Tempur-Pedic rank among the top choices for durability, comfort, and support.
Final Thoughts: Is the Derila Pillow Worth It?
After giving the Derila a fair shot, I’d say it’s a hard pass for anyone looking for a high-support, comfortable pillow.
With a lackluster thickness and limited support, the Derila might not give you the comfort you’re after, especially if neck pain relief is your goal. And the difficulties with their return policy add an extra layer of frustration.
In short, there are better options on the market that offer more comfort, customization, and support. If you’re in the market for a memory foam pillow, consider investing in a reputable brand that offers easy returns and more versatile features.