| Cover | May 19, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | May 19, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 001-12019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | QUAKER CHEMICAL CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000081362 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 23-0993790 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | PA |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 901 E. Hector Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Conshohocken |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 19428 |
| City Area Code | 610 |
| Local Phone Number | 832-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1 par value |
| Trading Symbol | KWR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
