Equity Changes in Shareholders's Equity (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Changes in Shareholders' equity
Balance at December 31, 2013	$ 16,863
Net income	441	380
Other comprehensive income (loss)	3	(235)
Cash dividends paid and accrued	(234)
Issuance of shares under equity-based compensation plans - net	38
Balance at March 31, 2014	17,111
Eaton shareholders' equity [Member]
Changes in Shareholders' equity
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,791
Net income	439
Other comprehensive income (loss)	3
Cash dividends paid and accrued	(234)
Issuance of shares under equity-based compensation plans - net	38
Balance at March 31, 2014	17,037
Noncontrolling interests [Member]
Changes in Shareholders' equity
Balance at December 31, 2013	72
Net income	2
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0
Cash dividends paid and accrued	0
Issuance of shares under equity-based compensation plans - net	0
Balance at March 31, 2014	$ 74