v2.4.0.6
DEI Information Document
6 Months Ended
Jul. 28, 2012
Aug. 13, 2012
Document Information [Line Items]    
Entity Registrant Name STAPLES INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0000791519  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Jul. 28, 2012  
Amendment Flag false  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --02-02  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   682,375,141
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2012  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q2  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes  
Entity Voluntary Filers No  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes