Segment Results (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 01, 2012	Jul. 03, 2011	Jul. 01, 2012	Jul. 03, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 824,803	$ 804,635	$ 2,419,859	$ 2,359,586
Acquisition and integration related charges	5,274	7,444	20,625	31,487
Restructuring and related charges	3,896	7,066	15,890	17,778
Interest Expense	39,686	40,398	150,082	165,923
Other expense, net	2,224	770	2,225	1,372
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	53,278	37,599	81,831	27,830
Total assets	3,776,174		3,776,174		3,626,706
Global Batteries & Appliances [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	500,724	505,213	1,669,973	1,661,177
Operating Income Before Acquisition and Integration Costs, Restructuring and Related Charges	47,093	45,480	185,726	180,460
Total assets	2,183,331		2,183,331		2,275,076
Global Pet Supplies [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	157,495	143,839	448,962	425,106
Operating Income Before Acquisition and Integration Costs, Restructuring and Related Charges	22,470	19,240	57,778	53,951
Total assets	973,559		973,559		828,202
Home and Garden Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	166,584	155,583	300,924	273,303
Operating Income Before Acquisition and Integration Costs, Restructuring and Related Charges	44,224	42,921	60,509	51,008
Total assets	567,718		567,718		476,381
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income Before Acquisition and Integration Costs, Restructuring and Related Charges	113,787	107,641	304,013	285,419
Total assets	3,724,608		3,724,608		3,579,659
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income Before Acquisition and Integration Costs, Restructuring and Related Charges	9,429	14,364	33,360	41,029
Total assets	$ 51,566		$ 51,566		$ 47,047