Equity (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Calculation of net income per common share attributable to common shareholders
Net income attributable to Eaton common shareholders	$ 345	$ 365	$ 1,038	$ 988
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	339.8	341.9	339.7	344.4
Less dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock awards	2.2	3.8	3.0	4.7
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic	337.6	338.1	336.7	339.7
Net income per common share
Diluted	$ 1.02	$ 1.07	$ 3.05	$ 2.86
Basic	$ 1.02	$ 1.07	$ 3.08	$ 2.90