Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2014
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	$ 1,517,560
Goodwill acquired	13,674
Foreign currency translation	1,334
Balance as of February 28, 2014	1,532,568
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	944,325
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	(1,136)
Balance as of February 28, 2014	943,189
Uniform Direct Sales
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	23,942
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	(53)
Balance as of February 28, 2014	23,889
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	216,989
Goodwill acquired	4,866
Foreign currency translation	0
Balance as of February 28, 2014	221,855
Document Management
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	332,304
Goodwill acquired	8,808
Foreign currency translation	2,523
Balance as of February 28, 2014	$ 343,635