Leases [Abstract] Operating Lease, Cost Operating Lease, Cost Short-term Lease, Cost Short-term Lease, Cost Operating Lease, Payments Operating Lease, Payments Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent SERP [Abstract] SERP [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan [Member] SERP Disclosure Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] SERP, benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation SERP expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Curtailment gain Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, (Increase) Decrease for Curtailment SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract] SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] INCOME TAXES [Abstract] INCOME TAXES [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Deferred Tax Asset Liability [Axis] Deferred Tax Asset Liability [Axis] Components of Deferred Taxes classified as an Asset or Liability on the consolidated balance sheet[Axis] Deferred Tax Asset Liability [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset Liability [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset Liability [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Asset component of Deferred Taxes on the consolidated balance sheet. [Member] Deferred Tax Liability Deferred Tax Liability [Member] Liability component of Deferred Taxes on the consolidated balance sheet. [Member] Statement Statement [Line Items] Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Deferred compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation Postretirement benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Lease right of use assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Lease right of use assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Lease right of use assets Lease liabilities Deferred Tax Asset, Lease Liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Lease Liabilities Allowance for doubtful accounts Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Deferred marketing expenses Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense Deferred marketing expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Other Other assets Deferred Tax Assets, Other Other liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax Amortization Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets Amortization Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets Inventories Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory Depletion Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Finite-Lived Assets Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Reclamation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Asset Retirement Obligations Other assets - foreign Deferred Tax Asset Liability Net Foreign Subsidiaries The net amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities related to foreign subsidiaries as of the balance sheet date, which result from applying the applicable enacted tax rate to net temporary differences and carryforwards pertaining to assets or liabilities. A temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its carrying amount in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles that will reverse in ensuing periods. Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net OTHER CONTINGENCIES [Abstract] OTHER CONTINGENCIES [Abstract] Other Contingencies Disclosure Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] OPERATING SEGMENTS [Abstract] OPERATING SEGMENTS [Abstract] Revenue by Principal Product by Operating Segment Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting Information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Financial Information by Geographic Region Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Largest Customer Information Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Leases of Lessor Disclosure Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Share-based Payment Arrangement [Policy Text Block] Share-based Payment Arrangement [Policy Text Block] EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS [Abstract] EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] Postretirement Health Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Postretirement Health Benefits Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Amortization of: Prior service costs (income) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Amortization of: Other actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Settlement cost Lump Sum Settlement Expense Lump Sum Settlement Expense Net periodic benefit cost Inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Estimated Intangible Amortization Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Weighted Average Amortization Period Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Amortization of: Net actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization of Gain (Loss), Next Fiscal Year Amortization of: Prior service income Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit), Next Fiscal Year Total to be recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization, Next Fiscal Year Operating Leases, Rent Expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Estimated Intangible Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2024 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2025 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Notes Payable [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Series B Senior Notes Series B Senior Notes [Member] Series B Senior Notes [Member] Notes Payable Maturities Debt Instrument [Line Items] 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2023 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2024 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2025 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION [Abstract] STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION [Abstract] Schedule of summary of restricted stock Share-based Payment Arrangement, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type Award Type [Domain] Restricted Stock Restricted Stock [Member] Summary of Restricted Stock Activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Nonvested restricted stock outstanding, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Nonvested restricted stock outstanding, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted stock outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Nonvested retricted stock outstanding, Unamortized Expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Excluding Option, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount Granted, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeitures, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Domain] Scenario [Domain] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Retail and Wholesale Products Retail and Wholesale Segment [Member] Retail and Wholesale Segment [Member] Business to Business Products Business to Business Segment [Member] Business to Business Segment [Member] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Maximum maturity of cash equivalents CashEquivalentsOriginalMaturityMaximum The maximum number of months for the original maturity of a financial instrument to be classified as a cash equivalent. Short-term investments original maturity maximum Short-term Investments Original Maturity Maximum The maximum number of years for the original maturity of a financial instrument to be classified as short-term investment. Inventory obsolescence reserves Inventory Valuation Reserves Amortization period of intangible assets (years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Amortization of intangibles Amortization of Intangible Assets Indefinite-lived trademarks Indefinite-Lived Trademarks Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Stripping costs Stripping costs Cost incurred during the process of removing the overburden from the mine site, thus exposing the sorbent mineral. Pre-production overburden removal costs Pre-production overburden removal costs Cost incurred during the process of removing the overburden from a new mine site prior to the start of production. Land Land Mineral rights Mineral Rights Pre-production development costs Pre-production development costs Costs incurred to develop a new mine prior to the start of production. Prepaid royalties Prepaid Royalties Depreciation Depreciation Interest Costs Capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Impairment of property, plant and equipment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use CARES Act, Current Payroll Tax Deferral CARES Act, Current Payroll Tax Deferral On March 27, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was signed into U.S. law. The CARES Act provides for, among other things, deferral of the employer portion of social security taxes incurred through the end of calendar 2020. CARES Act, Future Payroll Tax Deferral CARES Act, Future Payroll Tax Deferral On March 27, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was signed into U.S. law. The CARES Act provides for, among other things, deferral of the employer portion of social security taxes incurred through the end of calendar 2020. This is the future estimated expected total deferred employer social security tax amount. Advertising expense Marketing and Advertising Expense Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and Handling Costs Research and development costs Research and Development Expense Other Operating Income Other Operating Income Operating leases, Right-of-Use Assets Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Revenue by Principal Product by Operating Segment [Abstract] Revenue by Principal Product by Operating Segment [Abstract] Revenue by Principal Product by Operating Segment [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Cat Litter Cat Litter [Member] Cat Litter [Member] Industrial and Sports Industrial and Sports [Member] Industrial and Sports [Member] Agricultural and Horticultural Agricultural and Horticultural [Member] Agricultural and Horticultural [Member] Bleaching Clay and Fluids Purification Bleaching Clay and Fluids Purification [Member] Bleaching Clay and Fluids Purification [Member] Animal Health and Nutrition Animal Health and Nutrition [Member] Animal Health and Nutrition [Member] Revenue by Principal Product Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Net Sales Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Schedule of Notes Payable Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] U.S. federal income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Depletion deductions allowed for mining Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Depletion, Percent State income tax expense, net of federal tax expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Difference in effective tax rate of foreign subsidiaries Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Prior year income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Percent Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Current - Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current - Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current - State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Total Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred - Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred - Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred - State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Total Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Income Tax Expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Retail and Wholesale Products Unallocated Assets Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reporting Information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Assets Assets Segment Net Sales Revenues Other Operating Income Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Segment Income Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income for Reportable Segment Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income for Reportable Segment Corporate Expenses Corporate Expenses The corporate expenses line represents certain unallocated expenses, including primarily salaries, wages and benefits, purchased services, rent, utilities and depreciation and amortization associated with corporate functions such as research and development, information systems, finance, legal, human resources and customer service. Corporate expenses also include the annual incentive plan bonus accrual. Income from Operations Operating Income (Loss) Total Other (Expense) Income, Net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income Before Income Taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income Taxes Net Income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (Loss) Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income Attributable to Oil-Dri Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on total service and interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on total service and interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Adjustment for Settlement or Curtailment Gain (Loss), Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Adjustment for Settlement or Curtailment Gain (Loss), Tax Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan First Voluntary Contribution Defined Benefit Plan First Voluntary Contribution Voluntary contribution to defined benefit plan in excess of the minimum required contribution. Defined Benefit Plan Second Voluntary Contribution Defined Benefit Plan Second Voluntary Contribution Defined Benefit Plan Second Voluntary Contribution Pension plan estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Health care cost trend rate assumed Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed, Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year Health Care Cost Trend Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year Health Care Cost Trend Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract] Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract] Defined Contribution Plan [Table] Defined Contribution Plan [Table] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Axis] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Axis] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Domain] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Domain] 401K Plan Qualified Plan [Member] Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Contribution to defined contribution plans Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Before Change Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Before Change Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Before Change Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Before Change Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Before Change Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Before Change Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Net actuarial loss (gain) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, after Tax Amortization of: Prior service (cost) income Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Amortization of actuarial (loss) gain Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Curtailment/Settlement Combined Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), after Tax Combined Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), after Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), after Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), after Tax Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Buildings and leasehold improvements Buildings and leasehold improvements [Member] Buildings and leasehold improvements [Member] Machinery and Equipment - Packaging Equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment - Processing Other Machinery and Equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment - Mining and Other Mining and Other [Member] Mining and other machinery and equipment [Member] Office furniture and equipment Office furniture, computers and equipment [Member] Office furniture, computers and equipment [Member] Vehicles Vehicles [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Estimated useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Schedule of Obligations and Funded Status Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurement, Policy Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Unrecognized tax benefits, liability Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized tax benefits, penalties and interest expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Unrecognized tax benefits, penalties and interest accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Foreign and U.S. state tax statute of limitations (years) ForeignandStateTaxStatuteOfLimitations The number of years for foreign and U.S. state jurisdiction tax return statute of limitations. Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Pension and Postretirement Health Benefits Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Cumulative Translation Adjustment Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, beginning balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Curtailment/Settlement on Pension Plan Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, ending balance Tax on Other comprehensive (loss) incomes, Pension and postretirement benefit Plans before reclassifications Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Tax on amount reclassified from AOCI, Pension and postretirement health benefits Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Tax Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Equity securities U.S. companies Equity Securities: U.S. companies [Member] This category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable no redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants for U.S. Companies. Equity securities International companies Equity Securities International Companies [Member] This category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable no redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants for international companies. Equity securities - international mutual funds: Developed market International Equity Mutual Funds Developed Markets [Member] An investment that pools funds from many investors to invest in a combination of underlying investments, primarily equity investments in developed markets. Equity securities - international mutual funds: Emerging market International Equity Mutual Funds Emerging Markets [Member] An investment that pools funds from many investors to invest in a combination of underlying investments, primarily equity investments in emerging markets. Commodity Based Investments Commodity Based Investments [Member] An investment primarily in commodity-linked derivative instruments. Fixed Income: U.S. Treasuries US Treasury Securities [Member] Fixed Income: Debt securities Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Fixed Income: Government sponsored entities Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member] Fixed Income: Multi-strategy bond fund [Member] Fixed Income: Multi-strategy bond fund [Member] An investment that invests at least 80% of its net assets in bonds and other fixed income instruments issued by governmental or private-sector entities. More than 50% of its net assets are invested in mortgage-backed securities. The fund may invest up to 33 1/3% of its net assets in high-yield bonds, bank loans and assignments and credit default swaps. Money Market Funds Money Market Funds [Member] Other Other Investment [Member] An investment that pools funds from many investors that employs a variety of investment strategies. The portfolio may include equities, convertible securities, debt securities, warrants, options, swaps, future contracts, forwards or other types of deriviative instruments. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Amount Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Amount Minimum % of Fund Assets Invested in Non-US Stocks Developed Market % of Fund Assets Invested in Non-US Stocks Percent of Fund Assets Invested in Stocks of Non-US Companies, primarily in developed markets Amount Backed by US Government Amount Backed by US Government Represents the fair value of the portion of our pension assets invested in a pool of single-family residential mortgage loans that is backed by the full faith and credit of the US Government. Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months 2022 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two 2023 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three 2024 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four 2025 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five 2026-30 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Senior Notes Issued November 2010 Senior Notes [Member] Line of Credit, BMO Harris Line of Credit [Member] Debt Instrument Notes Payable Senior Notes Less current maturities of notes payable Senior Notes, Current Less unamortized debt issuance costs Debt Issuance Costs, Net Noncurrent Notes payable Senior Notes, Noncurrent Annual Principal Installments Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal Starting payments Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start Ending payments Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End Annual rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2006 Plan 2006 Plan [Member] 2006 Plan [Member] 2006 Plan - Restricted Stock 2006 Plan - Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock grants under our 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan Share-based Compensation Award Disclosure Number of shares authorized Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Number of shares available for grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Award vesting period (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-based compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense Tax benefit from compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense, Tax Benefit Cover [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Common Class B Common Class B [Member] Common Class A Common Class A [Member] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Document Annual Report Document Annual Report Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Entity File Number Entity File Number Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line Two Entity Address, Address Line Two Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Discount rate for net periodic benefit costs Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Discount rate for year-end obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of increase in compensation levels for net periodic benefit costs Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Rate of increase in compensation levels for year-end obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Long-term expected rate of return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Domestic Operations Domestic Operations [Member] Domestic Operations [Member] Foreign subsidiaries Foreign Operations [Member] Foreign Operations [Member] Financial Information by Geographic Region Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Sales to unaffiliated customers Sales or transfers between geographic areas Sales or transfers between geographic areas Sales or transfers between domestic and foreign subsidiaries that are eliminated upon consolidation. Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) attributable to Oil-Dr Identifiable assets FAIR VALUE [Abstract] FAIR VALUE [Abstract] Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS [Abstract] PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS [Abstract] Cash and accrued income Fixed income Fixed Income Funds [Member] Equity Equity Securities [Member] Target Allocation % Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Target Allocation, Percentage Actual Allocation % Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Actual Allocation, Percentage DEFERRED COMPENSATION [Abstract] DEFERRED COMPENSATION [Abstract] Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits, by Title of Individual and by Type of Deferred Compensation [Table] Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits, by Title of Individual and by Type of Deferred Compensation [Table] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Arrangement, Individual Contract, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Arrangement, Individual Contract, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Deferred Compensation Deferred Compensation [Member] An agreement whereby certain members of management and directors may elect to defer receipt of payment of a portion of their salary, consulting fee and/or their discretionary bonus awarded, if any for that year, within certain parameters. Interest will be earned on the deferred amounts. Executive Deferred Bonus Deferred Bonus [Member] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items] Annual Total Amount Deferred Deferred Compensation Annual Total The total amount of compensation elected to be deferred during the fiscal year. Deferred Compensation Interest Expense Deferred Compensation Interest Expense The interest expense recorded during the year related to deferred compensation balances in accordance with the related plan terms. Deferred Compensation Payments to Participants Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Distribution Paid Deferred Compensation Recorded Liability Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Recorded Liability Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Contributions by Employer Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Contributions by Employer Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Requisite Service Period Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Requisite Service Period Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, less allowance of $1,078 and $644 in 2020 and 2019, respectively Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Inventories, net Inventory, Net Prepaid repairs expense Deferred Costs, Current Prepaid expenses and other assets Prepaid Expense, Current Total Current Assets Assets, Current Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross [Abstract] Buildings and leasehold improvements Buildings and Improvements, Gross Machinery and equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Office furniture and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Vehicles Vehicles Gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of long-lived, depreciable assets that include motorized vehicles used in the production process to produce goods and services. Gross depreciable assets GrossDepreciableAssets Gross amount, at the balance sheet date, of long-lived depreciable assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Less accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net depreciable assets NetDepreciableAssets Tangible depreciable assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Land and mineral rights Land, mineral rights and reclamation asset The total carrying value of land, mineral rights and reclamation assets. Total Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Other Assets Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Trademarks and patents, net of accumulated amortization of $457 and $299 in 2020 and 2019, respectively TrademarksAndPatents Carrying amount (original costs adjusted for previously recognized amortization and impairment) as of the balance sheet date for the rights acquired through registration of a trademark to gain or protect exclusive use of a business name, symbol or other device or style for a projected indefinite period of benefit PLUS The amount, net of accumulated amortization, as of the balance sheet date of the costs pertaining to the exclusive legal rights granted to the owner of the patent to exploit an invention or a process for a period of time specified by law. Such costs may have been expended to directly apply, receive and maintain patent rights, or to acquire such rights. Customer list, net of accumulated amortization of $6,887 and $6,297 in 2020 and 2019, respectively Customer list, net Gross carrying amount before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date of an asset comprised of customer information, acquired in a business combination or other transaction, having a finite beneficial life. Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Operating lease right-of-use assets Other Other Assets, Noncurrent Total Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current maturities of notes payable Accounts Payable Accounts Payable, Current Dividends payable Dividends Payable, Current Operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability, Current Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Salaries, wages and commissions Employee-related Liabilities, Current Trade promotions and advertising Accrued Marketing Costs, Current Freight Accrued Liabilities, Current Real estate tax Accrued Real Estate Tax, Current Accrued Real Estate Tax, Current Other Other Liabilities, Current Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Notes payable, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $150 and $31 in 2020 and 2019, respectively Deferred compensation Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Pension and postretirement benefits Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent Long-term operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Other Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Noncurrent Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Liabilities Stockholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common Stock, par value $.10 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Pension and postretirement benefits Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax Cumulative translation adjustment Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Less treasury stock, at cost (3,090,230 Common and 335,816 Class B shares in 2020 and 2,926,547 Common and 324,741 Class B shares in 2019) Treasury Stock, Value Total Stockholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Deferred income tax Deferred income tax The noncurrent deferred income taxes recognized in the balance sheet related to defined benefit pension and other postretirment benefit plans. Other current liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Current Other noncurrent Liabilities Accumulated other comprehensive income - net of tax, Net actuarial loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), after Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income - net of tax, Prior service cost (income) Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), after Tax Intangible Assets Weighted Average Amortization Period [Abstract] Intangible Assets Weighted Average Amortization Period [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Trademarks and patents Trademarks and Patents [Member] Exclusive legal right granted by the government to the owner of the patent to exploit an invention or a process for a period of time specified by law AND Rights acquired through registration of a trademark to gain or protect exclusive use of a business name, symbol or other device or style. Customer list Customer Lists [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Amortization Period Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table] Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table] Deferred Revenue Arrangement Type [Axis] Deferred Revenue Arrangement Type [Axis] Deferred Revenue [Domain] Deferred Revenue [Domain] Payments in Advance Up-front Payment Arrangement [Member] Deferred Revenue Arrangement Revenue Recognition, Multiple-deliverable Arrangements [Line Items] Liability for Payments in Advance Deferred Revenue, Current Payments in Advance, Revenue Recognized Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due in Rolling Year Two 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due in Rolling Year Three 2024 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due in Rolling Year Four 2025 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due in Rolling Year Five Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Rolling Year Five Total Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: imputed interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Net Lease Obligation Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Management Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade Receivables Accounts Receivable [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Translation of Foreign Currencies Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangibles and Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Overburden Removal and Mining Costs Overburden Removal and Mining Costs [Policy Text Block] Description of accounting policy for overburden removal/stripping costs for mined properties and other mining-related costs. Reclamation Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Policy Text Block] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Policy Text Block] Trade Promotions Trade Promotions [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for trade promotions which are netted against revenue. Advertising Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales Cost of Goods and Service [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Operating Income Other Operating Income [Policy Text Block] Other Operating Income [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Stockholders' Equity Class of Stock [Line Items] Lease, Cost Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Basic Common Basic Class B Common Cost of Sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross Profit Gross Profit Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Income from Operations Other (Expense) Income Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Foreign exchange loss Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total Other (Expense) Income, Net Income Before Income Taxes Income Tax Expense Net income Net Income Attributable to Oil-Dri Net Income Per Share Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Average Shares Outstanding Weighted Average Shares Outstanding [Abstract] Weighted Average Shares Outstanding [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activites: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Amortization of investment discounts Accretion (Amortization) of Discounts and Premiums, Investments Non-cash stock compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Noncash Expense Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Provision for bad debts and cash discounts Accounts Receivable, Credit Loss Expense (Reversal) Loss on the disposals of property, plant and equipment Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Curtailment gain on SERP Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailment (Increase) decrease in: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Assets [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Increase (decrease) in: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities Deferred compensation Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Compensation Pension and postretirement benefits Increase (Decrease) in Obligation, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Total Adjustments Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of short-term investments Payments to Acquire Short-term Investments Dispositions of short-term investments Proceeds from Sale of Short-term Investments Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from issuance of notes payable Proceeds from Notes Payable Principal payments on notes payable Repayments of Senior Debt Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Purchase of treasury stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Net Cash Used in Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Year Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Year Other cash flows: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest payments, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Income tax payments (refund) Income Taxes Paid, Net Noncash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Capital expenditures accrued, but not paid Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Cash dividends declared and accrued, but not paid Dividends Payable Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Paranthetical [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Paranthetical [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Trademarks and patents accumulated amortization TrademarksAndPatentsAccumulated Amortization The accumulated amount of amortization of the costs pertaining to the rights acquired through registration of a trademark to gain or protect exclusive use of a business name, symbol or other device or style for a projected indefinite period of benefit PLUS the accumulated amount of amortization of the costs pertaining to the exclusive legal rights granted to the owner of the patent to exploit an invention or a process for a period of time specified by law. Customer list accumulated amortization Customer list accumulated amortization Accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date that pertains to a customer list finite-lived intangible asset. Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Stockholders’ Equity Common Stock, par value per share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury Stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Payment Arrangement [Text Block] Deferred Compensation Compensation Related Costs, General [Text Block] 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2024 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Packaging Packaging Inventory Packaging Inventory Other Other Inventory, Gross Inventories Consolidated Statements of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Pension and postretirement benefits (net of tax) Cumulative translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS [Abstract] FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value of cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, including short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Operating Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Number of Reportable Segments Number of Reportable Segments Cash held at foreign banks Foreign Financial Institutions, Actual Deposits Face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Shelf Notes Shelf Notes Maximum aggregate principal of unsecured notes available for purchase, at lender's discretion on an uncommitted basis. Expiration date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Maximum borrowing capacity for letters of credit Line of Credit Facility, Capacity Available for Specific Purpose Other than for Trade Purchases Variable interest rate, prime based Line of Credit Facility, Variable Interest Rate, Prime Based The variable interest rate based on the prime rate for the line of credit facility as of the end of the period. Variable interest rate, LIBOR based Line of Credit Facility, Variable Interest Rate, LIBOR Based The variable interest rate based on the LIBOR rate for the line of credit facility as of the end of the period. Line of credit amount outstanding Long-term Line of Credit Minimum overdue financial obligation considered as default DebtInstrumentMinimumOverdueFinancialObligationConsideredAsDefault The amount of obligation due, which if exceeded (after grace periods and absent a waiver from the lenders) and which there is a failure to pay, would result in an event of default and acceleration of the maturity of any outstanding debt as per the cross-default provision under the credit facility. Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Net sales for the years ended July 31 Revenue Benchmark [Member] Net accounts receivable as of July 31 Accounts Receivable [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer, Walmart Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Revenue, Major customer Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Concentration risk, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Consolidated Statements of Stockholders Equity and Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Stockholders Equity and Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership Ownership [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest Agromex Noncontrolling Interest Agromex [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Agromex [Member] Parent Oil-Dri Corporation of America Parent Oil-Dri Corporation of America [Member] [Member] Parent Oil-Dri Corporation of America [Member] [Member] Total Stockholders' Equity Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Common & Class B Stock Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Total, Beginning of Period Common & Class B Stock, Beginning of Period (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury Stock, Beginning of Period (in shares) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Dividends Declared Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Purchases of Treasury Stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Purchases of Treasury Stock (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Net Issuance of Stock Under Long-Term Incentive Plans (in shares) Shares Issued, Shares, Share-based Payment Arrangement, after Forfeiture Net issuance of stock under long-term incentive plans Shares Issued, Value, Share-based Payment Arrangement, after Forfeiture Amortization of Restricted Stock APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Restricted Stock Unit, Increase for Cost Recognition Contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Total, End of Period Common & Class B Stock, End of Period (in shares) Treasury Stock, End of Period (in shares) Noncontrolling Interest, Parent Ownership Percentage Prior to Purchase of Additional Interest Noncontrolling Interest, Parent Ownership Percentage Prior to Purchase of Additional Interest Noncontrolling Interest, Parent Ownership Percentage Prior to Purchase of Additional Interest Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Noncontrolling Interest Ownership Percentage Prior to Parent's Purchase of Additional Interest Noncontrolling Interest Ownership Percentage Prior to Parent's Purchase of Additional Interest Noncontrolling Interest Ownership Percentage Prior to Parent's Purchase of Additional Interest Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Change in benefit obligation: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligation, beginning of year Actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Curtailment Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Payment for Settlement Benefit obligation, end of year Change in plan assets: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets. beginning of year Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) Employer contribution Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement Fair value of plan assets. end of year Funded status, recorded in Consolidated Balance Sheets Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Summary of stock option transactions [Table] Summary of Share-based Award Activity Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party Related Party [Domain] Director Director [Member] Related Party Transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Net sales to related party customer Revenue from Related Parties Accounts receivable due from related party customer Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Purchases from related party vendor Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Accounts payable due to related party vendor Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current