The answer is yes, the Graco simple sway swing does recline. There are two positions that it can be in, either upright or reclined. To change the position, there is a knob on the back of the swing that you turn to switch it between the two positions. When it is in the upright position, it is still slightly reclined so that your baby can comfortably lounge in it without falling asleep. The reclined position is more suitable for when your baby wants to take a nap since they will be more likely to stay asleep in this position.