| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 05, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 5, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Donnelley Financial Solutions, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001669811 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 001-37728 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 36-4829638 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 35 West Wacker Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Chicago |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60601 |
| City Area Code | (844) |
| Local Phone Number | 866-4337 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock (Par Value $0.01) |
| Trading Symbol | DFIN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
