Loss Contingency [Abstract] Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract] Notes to Financial Statements Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs Incurred to Date Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs Incurred to Date [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs Incurred to Date [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net income including noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Cumulative translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Retirement Plan and other retiree benefit adjustments Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Total Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Comprehensive income including noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Cumulative translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Comprehensive Income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Comprehensive income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Net Investment Hedging [Member] Net Investment Hedging [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Currency Contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Interest Rate Swap Contracts [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Commodity Contracts [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Foreign Currency Denominated Debt [Member] Debt [Member] Cross-Currency Swap [Member] Currency Swap [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Activity related to fair value hedges [Abstract] Effect of Fair Value Hedges on Results of Operations [Abstract] Gain (loss) on derivative Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings Gain (loss) on hedged items Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge Activity related to cash flow hedges [Abstract] Effect of Cash Flow Hedges on Results of Operations [Abstract] Gain (loss) recognized in OCI Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Gain (loss) reclassified into Cost of sales Cost of Goods Sold Activity related to net investment hedges [Abstract] Summary of Net Investment Hedge Activity [Abstract] Gain (loss) on instruments TranslationAdjustmentForNetInvestmentHedgeIncreaseDecrease Current period adjustment in other comprehensive income reflecting gains or losses on foreign currency transactions that are designated as, and are effective as, hedges of a net investment in a foreign entity, before tax. Gain (loss) on hedged items Change In Unrealized Gain Loss On Hedged Item In Net Investment Hedge Amount of the gain or loss during the period of the hedged item in a net investment hedge. Recognized in other comprehensive income and is offset by the gain (loss) on the hedging instrument to the extent that the net investment hedge is determined to be effective. Activity related to derivatives not designated as hedging instruments [Abstract] Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Abstract] Gain (loss) on instrument Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Gain (loss) on hedged item Change In Unrealized Gain Loss On Underlying Amount of the increase or decrease in fair value during the period of the underlying deposit. Recognized in earnings and is offset by the gain (loss) on the derivative instrument. Restructuring and Related Implementation Charges Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory, Net [Abstract] Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Carrying Value [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Financial Instruments [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which are required or desirable disclosure items concerning assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Financial Instruments [Domain] Provides the general information items required or determined to be disclosed with respect to assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Long-term debt Long-term Debt Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Balance Sheet Statement Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Bonds Issued By Venezuelan Government [Member] Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Venezuelan Investments [Roll Forward] Venezuelan Investments [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Available-for-sale Securities Unrealized gain (loss) on investment Fair Value Measurement Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment This element represents total unrealized gains or losses for the period, arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data. Purchases and sales during the period Fair Value Measurement Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Purchases Sales Issuances Settlements This element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data. Ending balance Net Sales and Operating Profit by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Expected Period [Axis] Expected Period [Axis] Expected Period [Axis] Expected Period [Domain] Expected Period [Domain] [Domain] for Expected Period [Axis] Expected Completion Date 2016 Expected Completion Date 2016 [Member] Expected Completion Date 2016 [Member] Expected Completion Date December 2014 [Member] Expected Completion Date December 2014 [Member] Expected Completion Date December 2014 [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] One-time Termination Benefits [Member] One-time Termination Benefits [Member] Incremental Depreciation And Asset Impairment [Member] Incremental Depreciation And Asset Impairment [Member] Incremental Depreciation And Asset Impairment [Member] Incremental Depreciation [Member] Incremental Depreciation [Member] Incremental Depreciation [Member] Asset Impairment [Member] Asset Impairment [Member] Asset Impairment [Member] Charges Resulting Directly From Exit Activities [Member] Charges Resulting Directly From Exit Activities [Member] Charges Resulting Directly From Exit Activities [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Implementation Of New Strategies [Member] Implementation Of New Strategies [Member] Implementation Of New Strategies [Member] Third party Incremental Cost [Member] Third party Incremental Cost [Member] Third party Incremental Cost Land and Building [Member] Land and Building [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Two Thousand Twelve Restructuring Program [Member] Two Thousand Twelve Restructuring Program [Member] Two Thousand Twelve Restructuring Program [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Duration Of Restructuring Program Duration of the Restructuring Program Duration of the Restructuring Program Restructuring Program Expected Cost Before Tax Restructuring Program Expected Cost Before Tax Restructuring Program Expected Cost Before Tax Restructuring Program Expected Cost After Tax Restructuring Program Expected Cost After Tax Restructuring Program Expected Cost After Tax Expected Percent of Total Pretax Charges by Category Estimated Percent Of Total Cumulative Pretax Charges Of Implementing 2012 Restructuring Program Estimated Percent Of Total Cumulative Pretax Charges Of Implementing 2012 Restructuring Program Expected Percent of Total Charges Resulting In Cash Expenditure Percent of Restructuring Charges Resulting In Cash Expenditure Percent of Restructuring Charges Resulting In Cash Expenditure Percentage Reduction Of Global Employee Workforce Percentage Reduction Of Global Employee Workforce Percentage Reduction Of Global Employee Workforce Number of Employees as of the Start of the 2012 Restructuring Program Number of Employees as of the Start of the 2012 Restructuring Program Number of Employees as of the Start of the 2012 Restructuring Program Pretax charges related to the 2012 Restructuring Program Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost Pretax charges related to the 2012 Restructuring Program to date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Aftertax charges related to the 2012 Restructuring Program to date RestructuringAndRelated CostIncurredCostToDateAfterTax RestructuringAndRelated CostIncurredCostToDateAfterTax Charges Against Assets Restructuring Reserve, Charges Against Assets Restructuring Reserve, Charges Against Assets Inventories By Major Class Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Venezuela Venezuela [Text Block] Disclosure of transition to hyperinflationary accounting and subsequent currency devaluation in Venezuela. Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] North America [Member] North America [Member] Latin America [Member] Latin America [Member] Europe/South Pacific [Member] Europe South Pacific [Member] A specified group of foreign regions about which segment information is provided by the entity. Asia [Member] Asia [Member] Africa/Eurasia [Member] Africa Eurasia [Member] A specified group of foreign regions about which segment information is provided by the entity. Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Oral, Personal and Home Care [Member] Oral, Personal and Home Care Pet Nutrition [Member] Pet Nutrition [Member] Pet Nutrition Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales represented by Sales outside US Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales represented by Sales outside US Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales represented by Sales outside US Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales coming from Emerging Markets Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales coming from Emerging Markets Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales coming from Emerging Markets Pretax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Pretax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Pretax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Pretax costs related to sale of land Pretax costs related to sale of land Pretax costs related to sale of land in Mexico Total Net sales Revenues Total Operating profit Operating Income (Loss) Official currency exchange rate in Venezuela for non-essential goods prior to devaluation beginning February 9, 2013 Official currency exchange rate in Venezuela for non-essential goods prior to devaluation beginning Febrauary 9, 2013 Official currency exchange rate in Venezuela for non-essential goods prior to devaluation beginning Febrauary 9, 2013 Official currency exchange rate in Venezuela for non-essential goods beginning February 9, 2013 Official currency exchange rate in Venezuela for non-essential goods beginning February 9, 2013 Official currency exchange rate in Venezuela for non-essential goods beginning February 9, 2013 SICAD Exchange Rate in Venezuela at March 31, 2014 SICAD Exchange Rate in Venezuela at March 31, 2014 SICAD Exchange Rate in Venezuela at March 31, 2014 Aftertax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Aftertax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Aftertax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Impact of aftertax Venezuela devaluation charge per common share diluted Impact of Aftertax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Per Common Share, Diluted Impact of Aftertax Venezuela Remeasurement Charge Per Common Share, Diluted Percentage of consolidated Net sales represented by CP Venezuela (in hundredths) Percentage Of Consolidated Net sales Represented By Venezuela Subsidiary Percentage Of Consolidated Net sales Represented By Venezuela Subsidiary CP Venezuela bolivar fuerte denominated monetary net asset position Venezuela Subsidiary Bolivar Fuerte Denominated Monetary Net Asset Position Represents CP Venezuela's bolivar fuerte-denominated monetary net asset position as of the balance sheet date. Venezuela Subsidiary Bolivar Fuerte Denominated Non Monetary Asset Position Venezuela Subsidiary Bolivar Fuerte Denominated Non Monetary Asset Position Represents CP Venezuela's bolivar fuerte-denominated non monetary asset position as of the balance sheet date. Venezuela Subsidiary Bolivar Fuerte Denominated Non Monetary Fixed Asset Position Venezuela Subsidiary Bolivar Fuerte Denominated Non Monetary Fixed Asset Position Venezuela Subsidiary Bolivar Fuerte Denominated Non Monetary Fixed Asset Position Schedule of derivative instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Activity related to fair value hedges Schedule Of Derivative Instruments Gain Loss On Derivaties And Hedged Items Fair Value Hedges [Table Text Block] Schedule of the amount of gains and losses on derivatives and the offsetting gains and losses on the hedged item for all fair value hedges. Activity related to cash flow hedges Schedule Of Derivative Instruments Gain Loss In Statement Of Financial Performance Cash Flow Hedges [Table Text Block] Schedule of the location and amount of gains and losses reported in the statement of financial position, for example, gains and losses initially recognized in other comprehensive income, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges. Activity related to net investment hedges Schedule Of Derivative Instruments Gain Loss In Statement Of Financial Performance Net Investment Hedges [Table Text Block] Schedule of the amount of gains and losses on derivatives and the offsetting gains and losses on the hedged item for all net investment hedges. Activity related to derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Schedule Of Derivative Instruments Gain Loss In Statement Of Financial Performance Not Designated As Hedges [Table Text Block] Schedule of the amount of gains and losses on derivatives and the offsetting gains and losses on the hedged item for all derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. Reconciliation of the Venezuelan investments at fair value Fair Value Measured on Recurring Basis - Observable Inputs [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets using significant observable inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data (Level 2), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issues, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 2 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs), by class of asset. Assets Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Receivables (net of allowances of $64 and $67, respectively) Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill, net Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Notes and loans payable Short-term Bank Loans and Notes Payable Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Other accruals Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Unearned compensation Unearned Compensation Amount corresponds to the amount of leveraged ESOP debt guaranteed by the company. When the debt is recorded on the company's books, the equity reserve for unearned compensation is also recorded. Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total Colgate-Palmolive Company shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and shareholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Balance Restructuring Reserve Charges Cash payments Payments for Restructuring Foreign exchange Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Balance Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] United States Pension Benefits [Member] United States Pension Plan of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] International Pension Benefits [Member] Foreign Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member] Other Retiree Benefits [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Components of net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of transition and prior service costs (credits) Amortization Of Transition And Prior Service Costs Credits The amount of the transition obligation or asset recognized in net periodic benefit cost and the amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation. Amortization of actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Financial Instruments [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Loss related to the remeasurement of fixed interest rate and devaluations-protected bonds in Venezuela Loss related to the remeasurement of fixed interest rate and devaluations-protected bonds in Venezuela Loss related to the remeasurement of fixed interest rate and devaluations-protected bonds in Venezuela as a result of the effective devaluation in the first quarter of 2014. Loss related to the remeasurement of fixed interest rate bonds in Venezuela Loss related to the remeasurement of fixed interest rate bonds in Venezuela Loss related to the remeasurement of fixed interest rate bonds at February 9, 2013, the date when the Venezuelan government devalued its currency. Marketable Securities Marketable Securities Available-for-sale Securities Fair Value of U.S. dollar-linked, devaluation-protected bonds U.S. Dollar-Linked, Devaluation-protected Bonds, Fair Value Disclosure Fair Value of U.S. dollar-linked, devaluation-protected bonds issued by the Venezuelan government. Fair Value of fixed interest rate bonds Fair Value of fixed interest rate bonds Fair Value of fixed interest rate bonds issued by the Venezuelan government Sale of Land in Mexico [Abstract] Disclosures related to the Sale of Land in Mexico[Abstract] First Installment received from the sale of land in Mexico The cash inflow associated with the first Installment received upon signing of the agreement related to the sale of Land in Mexico Second Installment received from the sale of land in Mexico Second Installment received from the sale of land in Mexico The cash inflow associated with the Second Installment received related to the sale of Land in Mexico Aftertax costs related to sale of land Aftertax costs related to sale of land Aftertax costs related to sale of land in Mexico Stockholders' Equity Changes [Table] Stockholders' Equity Changes [Table] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Unearned Compensation [Member] Unearned Compensation [Member] Amount corresponds to the amount of leveraged ESOP debt guaranteed by the company. When the debt is recorded on the company's books, the equity reserve for unearned compensation is also recorded. Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Stockholders' Equity Changes [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity Changes [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Changes in Shareholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Net income Other comprehensive income, net of tax Dividends Dividends, Common Stock Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Shares issued for stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock issued for restricted stock awards Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Treasury stock acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Ending balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Net sales Revenue, Net Cost of sales Cost of Revenue Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Other (income) expense, net Other (income) expense, net The total amount of other operating income, not previously categorized, from items that are associated with the entity's normal revenue producing operation, and the total amount of other operating cost and expense items that are associated with the entity's normal revenue producing operation. Operating profit Interest (income) expense, net Interest expense, net The aggregate interest and debt related expenses associated with nonoperating financing activities of the entity, less the amount of income derived from investments in debt securities and on cash and cash equivalents, the earnings of which reflect the time value of money or transactions in which the payments are for the use or forbearance of money. Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income including noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings per common share, basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings per common share, diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Fair Value Derivatives Balance Sheet Location [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivatives Fair Value By Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Other Accruals [Member] Other Accruals [Member] Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included. Other Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Derivative and Financial Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Total assets derivatives Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Total liabilities derivatives Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Financial Instruments, Owned, at Fair Value [Abstract] Financial Instruments, Owned, at Fair Value [Abstract] Total other financial instruments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Designated derivative instruments Designated derivative instruments [Abstract] Designated derivative instruments [Abstract] Derivative Assets Derivative Asset Derivative Liabilities Derivative Liability Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Abstract] Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset, at Fair Value Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset, at Fair Value Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability, at Fair Value Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability, at Fair Value Minimum Number Of Countries And Territories Serving Consumers Minimum Number Of Countries And Territories Serving Consumers Minimum Number Of Countries And Territories Serving Consumers Range of reasonably possible losses, minimum Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum Range of reasonably possible losses, maximum Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Brazilian internal revenue authority, matter 1 Tax Assessments With Interest The amount of tax assessment with estimated interest accrued as of the balance sheet date arising from income tax examinations related to an acquisition. Brazilian internal revenue authority, matter 2 Tax Assessments With Interest And Penalties The amount of tax assessment with estimated penalties and interest accrued as of the balance sheet date arising from income tax examinations related to investments held by a foreign subsidiary. European competition matters - Swiss competition law authority Fine Imposed And Appealed Swiss Authority Fine imposed in 2009 by the Swiss competition law authority on the Company's GABA subsidiary for alleged violations of restrictions on parallel imports into Switzerland. The Company is appealing the fine in the Swiss courts. European competition matters - Spanish competition law authority Fine Imposed And Appealed Spanish Authority Fine imposed in 2010 by the Spanish competition law authority on the Company's Spanish subsidiary based on a finding that four suppliers of shower gel had entered into an agreement regarding product down-sizing. The Company is appealing the fine in the Spanish courts. European competition matters - Italian competition law authority Fine Imposed And Appealed Italian Authority Fine imposed in 2010 by the Italian competition law authority on the Company's Italian subsidiary for exchanging competitively sensitive information in the cosmetics sector. The Company is appealing the fine in the Italian courts. European competition matters - Hill's France Subsidiary FineImposedandAppealedFrenchLawAuthority FineImposedandAppealedFrenchLawAuthority Fine Imposed French competition authority Fine Imposed French Competition Authority Fine Imposed French Competition Authority ERISA Matter SettlementAgreementExecutedAndFiledForPreliminaryApprovalForERISAMatters Settlement agreement executed and filed for preliminary approval for ERISA matters. Acquisitions and Divestitures Acquisitions And Divestitures [Text Block] Business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period and planned or completed divestitures. Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Shareholders' Equity Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income including noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operations: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Restructuring and termination benefits, net of cash Restructuring, net of cash The amount of noncash restructuring costs net of cash payments. Stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Cash effects of changes in: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Accounts payable and other accruals Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Other non-current assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Purchases of marketable securities and investments Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Proceeds from sale of marketable securities and investments Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Principal payments on debt Repayments of Debt Proceeds from issuance of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends Purchases of treasury shares Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from exercise of stock options and excess tax benefits Proceeds and Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on Cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid Cumulative translation adjustments, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Cumulative translation adjustment, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Pension and other benefits: Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial gains (losses) and prior service costs arising during the period, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Loss And Prior Service Costs Arising During Period, Before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Pretax change in the value of either the benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption, or the consequence of a decision to temporarily deviate from the substantive plan, that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost, or the pretax cost (credit) of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service resulting from a plan amendment or plan initiation that occurred during the period. Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Loss And Prior Service Costs Arising During Period, Before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Net actuarial gains (losses) and prior service costs arising during the period, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Loss And Prior Service Costs Arising During Period, Net Of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Net of tax change in the value of either the benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption, or the consequence of a decision to temporarily deviate from the substantive plan, that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost, or the pretax cost (credit) of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service resulting from a plan amendment or plan initiation that occurred during the period. Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Loss And Prior Service Costs Arising During Period, Net Of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Amortization of net actuarial loss, transition & prior service costs, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Amortization Of Net Actuarial Loss Transition And Prior Service Costs, Before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent The net gain (loss), net prior service cost or credit, and net transition asset or obligation recognized, before tax, that is a reclassification adjustment of other comprehensive income as a result of being recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost for the period. Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Amortization Of Net Actuarial Loss Transition And Prior Service Costs, Before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Amortization of net actuarial loss, transition & prior service costs, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Amortization Of Net Actuarial Loss Transition And Prior Service Costs, Net Of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent The net gain (loss), net prior service cost or credit, and net transition asset or obligation recognized, net of tax, that is a reclassification adjustment of other comprehensive income as a result of being recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost for the period. Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Amortization Of Net Actuarial Loss Transition And Prior Service Costs, Net Of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Retirement Plan and other retiree benefit adjustments, before-tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Retirement Plan and other retiree benefit adjustments, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Available-for-sale securities: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment [Abstract] Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Reclassification of (gains) losses into net earnings on available-for-sale securities, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax Reclassification of (gains) losses into net earnings on available-for-sale securities, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax Gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net-of-tax Cash flow hedges: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges [Abstract] Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassification of (gains) losses into net earnings on cash flow hedges, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax Reclassification of (gains) losses into net earnings on cash flow hedges, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total other comprehensive income (loss), before-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total other comprehensive income (loss), net-of-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Remeasurement Due To Change in Foreign Exchange Rates [Abstract] Remeasurement Due To Change in Foreign Exchange Rates [Abstract] Remeasurement Due To Change in Foreign Exchange Rates [Abstract] Raw materials and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Gross Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Gross Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Total Inventories Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company, Basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company, Diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic EPS (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Stock options and restricted stock (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted EPS (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Geographical [Axis] Africa/Eurasia [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of Sales [Member] Gross Profit [Member] Gross Profit [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Other (Income) Expense, Net [Member] Other (Income) Expense, Net [Member] Other (Income) Expense, Net [Member] Expected Percent of Total Restructuring Charges Related to Segment Expected Percent Of Total Restructuring Charges Related To Segment for the duration of the program Expected Percent Of Total Restructuring Charges Related To Segment for the duration of the program Percent of Restructuring Charges Related to Segment for Period Percent Of Total Restructuring Charges Related To Segment for the period Percent Of Total Restructuring Charges Related To Segment for the period Percent of Restructuring Charges Related to Segment Program to Date PercentOfRestructuringChargesReportableSegmentProgramChargesIncurredToDate PercentOfRestructuringChargesReportableSegmentProgramChargesIncurredToDate Aftertax charges related to the 2012 Restructuring Program Restructuring And Related Cost, Incurred Cost, After Tax Restructuring And Related Cost, Incurred Cost, After Tax