A baby can be in a baby carrier for up to 2 hours.
Babies should not be left in a baby carrier or car seat longer than 2 hours as they could get what is known as positional asphyxiation and die.
Suffocation/asphyxiation can occur when babies are contained entirely within the pouch of a sling with their face, including nose and mouth, pressed against the adult's body, blocking their breathing.
Suffocation can occur within minutes.
As a general rule a baby should not spend more than 2 hours in a carrier but in reality it will depend on the situation, the carrier used, your baby's age, strength, etc.
Having your baby on your body in a baby carrier fosters a close bond between you and your baby.
It soothes a fussy baby and can stop constant crying.
When carrying your baby for long periods of time, it is vital to ensure that they are secured in the carrier or wrap in the correct hip-healthy position.
Any baby carrier that forces the baby's legs together and in a straight position for long periods of time could cause hip dysplasia.
When car seat straps are loose, babies can slump, leading to asphyxiation or be strangled.
One 2015 study showed 69 percent of families with newborns left the car seat straps too loose (Hoffman, Gallardo, & Carlson, 2016).