cliptop

Cliptop refers to a type of closure used on various containers where the top is secured to the body by a clip mechanism rather than threads or a snap-on cap. A cliptop closure typically includes a removable cap and a clip, bale, or wire mechanism that engages with a rim or groove on the container neck, allowing repeated opening and resealing. The design aims to provide a tight seal while enabling easy access.

Design and variants vary by application. One common form is the swing-top or bail closure, which uses a metal wire bail to hold a ceramic or plastic cap against a gasket. In other implementations, a plastic or metal cap clips directly onto the neck with snap-fit or clip-on features. Materials used include stainless steel for the clip, glass or ceramic for the bottle or jar body, and elastomer gaskets to improve sealing. Cliptop systems are valued for reusability and ability to maintain carbonation or freshness when properly sealed.

Applications and use cases include beverage bottles (notably historic and craft beverages), condiment jars, spice and dry goods containers, home canning systems, and some cosmetic jars. The format is popular where a resealable, durable closure is preferred and where a classic or traditional aesthetic is desired. In contemporary packaging, cliptop closures are often chosen for their recyclability and non-screw-access design, though they may require specific neck dimensions and compatible openings.

See also swing-top bottle, bale closure, crown cap, and resealable closures.