Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 39,787	$ 31,884	$ 59,811
Currency translation adjustments	41,601	4,779	(17,519)
Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Net gain (loss) arising during the period, other	8,827	(6,289)	1,119
Amortization of actuarial loss	2,308	2,458	2,507
Amortization of prior service gain	(69)	(151)	(84)
Current period change in fair value of derivatives	(3,278)	(320)	0
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	2,091	2,093	(1,728)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	51,480	2,570	(15,705)
Comprehensive Income	91,267	34,454	44,106
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(37)	(287)	(248)
Comprehensive income attributable to Quaker Chemical Corporation	$ 91,230	$ 34,167	$ 43,858