| Cover | Oct. 29, 2019 |
| Cover page. | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 29, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO INC |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | IN |
| Entity File Number | 0-362 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 35-0827455 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 9255 Coverdale Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Fort Wayne, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IN |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 46809 |
| City Area Code | 260 |
| Local Phone Number | 824-2900 |
| Entity Information, Former Legal or Registered Name | Not Applicable |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.10 par value |
| Trading Symbol | FELE |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000038725 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
