Fair Value Information (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Transfers among fair value determination	$ 0	$ 0

Change in fair values among the three levels of fair value measurements.

No definition available.

Name:	kmb_TransfersAmongFairValueDetermination
Namespace Prefix:	kmb_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration