| Document And Entity Information | Nov. 06, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 6, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | OFFICE DEPOT INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000800240 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 1-10948 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 59-2663954 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6600 North Military Trail |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Boca Raton |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33496 |
| City Area Code | 561 |
| Local Phone Number | 438-4800 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | ODP |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
