a fluid - flow - regulating contact applicator consisting of a plug or sleeve secured as a closure for a liquid dispensing bottle or similar container . the applicator is formed with a plurality of liquid - permeable ducts extending through a top wall thereof to provide fluid flow communication between the interior of the container and the ambient system . the ducts are physically dimensioned so as effectively to invoke surface tension molecular forces including capillary forces to preclude free flow of liquid through the ducts in response to gravitation alone , but to allow through flow of liquid when an outer face of the applicator is presented to and establishes contact between liquid contained in the duct and a surface to which the liquid is to be applied , thereby overcoming flow - inhibiting surface tension forces .