Fair Value Information (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Transfers among fair value determination	$ 0	$ 0
Unrealized Losses on Available For Sale Securities	not significant	not significant

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