| Document and Entity Information Document | Feb. 03, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 3, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | TrueBlue, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | WA |
| Entity File Number | 001-14543 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 91-1287341 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1015 A Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Tacoma |
| Entity Address, State or Province | WA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 98402 |
| City Area Code | 253 |
| Local Phone Number | 383-9101 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | TBI |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000768899 |
