| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 11, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SHERWIN WILLIAMS CO |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000089800 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 11, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | OH |
| Entity File Number | 1-04851 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 34-0526850 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 101 West Prospect Avenue |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Cleveland |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OH |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 44115 |
| City Area Code | (216) |
| Local Phone Number | 566-2000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share |
| Trading Symbol | SHW |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
