| Document and Entity Information | Jun. 21, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SCHWEITZER MAUDUIT INTERNATIONAL INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001000623 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 21, 2022 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-13948 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 62-1612879 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 100 North Point Center East |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 600 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Alpharetta |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 30022 |
| City Area Code | 1-800 |
| Local Phone Number | 514-0186 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.10 par value |
| Trading Symbol | SWM |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
