| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 07, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | LOWES COMPANIES INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000060667 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 7, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | NC |
| Entity File Number | 1-7898 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 56-0578072 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1000 Lowes Blvd. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Mooresville |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 28117 |
| City Area Code | (704) |
| Local Phone Number | 758-1000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.50 per share |
| Trading Symbol | LOW |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
