| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 02, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 2, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | BADGER METER INC |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | WI |
| Entity File Number | 001-06706 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 39-0143280 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4545 W. Brown Deer Rd. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Milwaukee |
| Entity Address, State or Province | WI |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 53223 |
| City Area Code | 414 |
| Local Phone Number | 355-0400 |
| Entity Information, Former Legal or Registered Name | Not Applicable |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000009092 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | BMI |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
