Fluid applicator for shoes and the like

A novel fluid applicator, together with a combination comprising the fluid applicator and a fluid container, are disclosed. The fluid applicator comprises a container cap having an external sidewall defining an exterior cavity. The fluid applicator further comprises an insert removably disposable into the cap cavity and engageable with the cap sidewall. The cap cavity insert comprises a fluid-distributing substance such as a foam pad or dauber. The cap has a resiliently-deformable domed surface, surrounded by the sidewall. A portion of the domed surface extends outwardly from the cap cavity. The domed surface defines at least two spaced-apart apertures or slits, at least one of which provides the domed surface with a valve means that opens in response to deformation of the domed surface, to allow fluid to flow by gravity through the one aperture or slit and to effect fluid communication from the fluid container to the fluid-distributing substance when a portion of the domed surface in the vicinity of such aperture or slit is subjected to a predetermined, dome-deforming force. Upon removal of the predetermined force, the valve means closes automatically in a substantially fluid-tight manner. At least a portion of the cap cavity insert is movable relative to the domed surface, for removably applying the predetermined force to the domed surface for opening and closing the valve means. The domed surface, moreover, is so configured as to enable fluid to flow by gravity generally away from each of the apertures or slits when the container is disposed in an upstanding position.