If your balcony receives full sun from noon onwards, the cushions on your urban outdoor furniture can indeed become uncomfortably hot to sit on. Dark-colored fabrics and synthetic materials like polyester absorb and retain significant heat when exposed to direct afternoon sunlight. The surface temperature can easily exceed safe touch levels, making seating unpleasant and potentially damaging cushion fillings over time.
To mitigate this, consider using cushions made from light-colored, breathable fabrics such as solution-dyed acrylic or outdoor mesh designed for heat dissipation. Implementing physical shade solutions—like a retractable awning, balcony umbrella, or shade sail—during peak sun hours is the most effective strategy. Simple habits also help: rotate or store cushions during intense afternoon exposure, use natural fiber add-ons like cotton throws, and select quick-dry foam fillers that heat up less than traditional ones. For truly sun-drenched spaces, integrated furniture with slatted designs or built-in cooling materials may offer a more permanent comfortable solution.