| Cover Document | Feb. 04, 2021 |
| Document Information [Line Items] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 4, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | TIMKEN CO |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000098362 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity File Number | 1-1169 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | OH |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 34-0577130 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4500 Mount Pleasant Street NW |
| Entity Address, City or Town | North Canton |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OH |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 44720-5450 |
| City Area Code | 234 |
| Local Phone Number | 262.3000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Shares, without par value |
| Trading Symbol | TKR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
