Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 31,884	$ 59,811	$ 22,300
Currency translation adjustments	4,779	(17,519)	21,076
Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Net (loss) gain arising during the period, other	(6,289)	1,119	(96)
Amortization of actuarial loss	2,458	2,507	2,255
Amortization of prior service gain	(151)	(84)	(84)
Current period change in fair value of derivatives	(320)	0	0
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	2,093	(1,728)	(130)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2,570	(15,705)	23,021
Comprehensive Income	34,454	44,106	45,321
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(287)	(248)	(2,736)
Comprehensive income attributable to Quaker Chemical Corporation	$ 34,167	$ 43,858	$ 42,585