Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 38,632	$ (28,344)
Currency translation adjustments	(25,461)	(54,751)
Defined benefit retirement plans	1,292	16,957
Current period change in fair value of derivatives	562	(3,981)
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities	(3,025)	(1,711)
Other comprehensive loss	(26,632)	(43,486)
Comprehensive income (loss)	12,000	(71,830)
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(15)	95
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Quaker Chemical Corporation	$ 11,985	$ (71,735)