Consolidated and Combined Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 277	$ 139	$ (492)
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	36	19	7
Net income (loss) attributable to Baker Hughes Company	241	120	(499)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Investment securities	2	(3)	4
Foreign currency translation adjustments	53	(502)	(14)
Cash flow hedges	12
Cash flow hedges		(4)	12
Benefit plans	(75)	(64)	55
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(8)	(573)	57
Less: Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	3
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Baker Hughes Company	(8)	(573)	54
Comprehensive income (loss)	269	(434)	(435)
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	36	19	10
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Baker Hughes Company	$ 233	$ (453)	$ (445)