v2.4.0.8

Retirement Benefits Plans Retirement Benefits Plans - Defined Contribution Plans (Details 13) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Contribution Plans [Line Items] |  |  |
Employer contributions to defined contribution plans | $ 121 | $ 74 | $ 65

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- Definition Defined Contribution Plans, Employer Contributions - Amounts charged to expense + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | etn_DefinedContributionPlansEmployerContributions
Namespace Prefix: | etn_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

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- Details
Name: | etn_DefinedContributionPlansLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | etn_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration