If your balcony receives intense afternoon sun, the cushions on your urban outdoor furniture will indeed fade relatively quickly without proper protection. The strong ultraviolet (UV) rays from prolonged direct sunlight break down the chemical bonds in fabric dyes, causing them to lose their vibrant color and appear washed out. This fading process accelerates with daily exposure during peak sun hours.
The rate of fading depends on several factors: the quality and type of fabric (solution-dyed acrylics resist fading better than standard fabrics), the intensity of the UV exposure in your specific climate, and the color of the cushions (darker colors often show fading more obviously but might have slightly better UV resistance).
To significantly slow down this process, consider using furniture covers during the brightest parts of the day, applying a UV-protectant spray designed for outdoor fabrics, choosing cushions made with fade-resistant materials, or even adding a balcony shade sail or umbrella to provide direct relief. Regularly rotating and flipping your cushions can also ensure they fade more evenly, maintaining a better appearance for longer. While some fading is inevitable with constant sun exposure, these protective measures can dramatically extend the life and look of your outdoor cushions.