Pension and Other Post-Retirement Plans - Defined Contribution Plan (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Expense associated with 401(k) Savings Plan	$ 39.7	$ 40.7	$ 40.9

The amount of the cost recognized during the period associated with the Company's match for defined contribution plans.

No definition available.

Name:	spls_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognizedAssociatedwithCompanyMatch
Namespace Prefix:	spls_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration