CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 611	$ 517	$ 1,098	$ 951
Less net income for noncontrolling interests	(1)	(1)	0	(1)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders	610	516	1,098	950
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
Currency translation and related hedging instruments	(671)	320	(414)	548
Pensions and other postretirement benefits	56	4	82	37
Cash flow hedges	(9)	(1)	4	1
Other comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders	(624)	323	(328)	586
Total comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders	$ (14)	$ 839	$ 770	$ 1,536