Amber dropper bottles

GL18 Dropper Bottle Closure – All Options Explained

The GL18 closure is one of the most widely used neck finishes for dropper bottles in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, CBD, e-liquid and aromatherapy industries. Known for its reliability and versatility, the GL18 system supports a range of closure styles designed to match different liquid viscosities, dosing needs and branding preferences.
Below is a full overview of the most popular.

GL18 dropper closure options.

Standard Dropper Cap + Pipette

The classic choice for precise, controlled dispensing.
Components include:

  • PP or PET dropper cap

  • Rubber or silicone bulb

  • Glass or plastic pipette (various lengths)

Best for: serums, tinctures, essential oils, actives, e-liquids.

Dropper bottle

Child-Resistant (CRC) Dropper Cap

A safety-focused version equipped with a push-down-and-turn mechanism.

Features:

  • Meets child-resistant standards

  • Compatible with tamper-evident bands

  • Ideal for regulated products

Best for: CBD oils, pharmaceuticals, e-liquids.

Tamper-Evident (TE) Dropper Cap

Designed to reassure end-users and protect product integrity.

Benefits:

  • Breakable ring shows first opening

  • Available with standard or CRC functionality

  • Multiple colours available

Best for: retail products requiring safety assurance.

Amber glass bottle

Dropper Insert (Vertical Tip)

A plug-in insert that dispenses liquid drop-by-drop without a pipette.

Types:

  • Vertical tip (straight drop)

  • Drip-controlled orifice sizes (0.5–3.0 mm)

  • Compatible TE or non-TE caps

Best for: essential oils, fragrances, homeopathic remedies.

Lotion Pump (GL18)

Turns the dropper bottle into a miniature pump system.

Specs:

  • Outputs range from 0.2–0.5 ml per stroke

  • Smooth or ribbed caps

  • Lockable or non-lockable versions

Best for: serums, oils, viscous skincare formulas.

Spray Pump (Fine Mist / Atomizer)

Designed for light fluids and hydrosols.

Features:

  • Fine mist spray

  • Over cap protection

  • Custom dip-tube lengths

Best for: toners, perfumes, face mists, disinfectants.

Pump glass bottle

Screw Cap (GL18)

A simple closure without dispensing features.

Materials: PP, HDPE, or aluminium

Options: with or without liners (PE, pulp, foam, induction seal)

Best for: refills, bulk liquids, powders, and supplements.

Dropper with Filter or Ball Insert

Less common but useful for specialized formulations.

Options:

  • Filter insert for thicker serums

  • Ball reducer for controlled flow

Best for: herbal extracts, oily tinctures, and formulations prone to clogging.

Choosing the Right GL18 Closure

When selecting your GL18 closure, consider:

  • Viscosity of the liquid

  • Regulatory requirements (CRC/TE)

  • Brand aesthetic (matte, glossy, colours, metal shells)

  • User experience (dropper vs spray vs pump)

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