Between bolting at the first sign of a sniffle to carrying around anti-bacterial wipes like a fashion accessory, it’s easy to understand why germaphobes may have a more “annoying” reputation.

But while they can sometimes take things to the extreme, experts say they have a few habits the rest of us should actually consider.

Wipe Down Your Phone 

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Many of us share a rather intimate relationship with our smartphones — we touch them on and off all day, and regularly hold them near our faces after placing them on a variety of germy surfaces. Unfortunately, your nose, mouth, and eyes are “the most direct portal for germs to enter your body,” says internist Roshini Raj, MD, author of “What the Yuck?!” She advises cleaning your phone at least once a week with a disinfectant wipe to limit your exposure to unwanted bacteria.
Use A Paper Towel On Public Bathroom Handles

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Studies have shown that the toilet seat isn’t the germiest surface in a public restroom. According to research from the University of Florida, faucets, soap dispensers, and door handles actually contain the most bacteria. “Just think about how many people aren’t washing their hands, or at least aren’t washing properly, before they grab the handle,” says Raj. She recommends washing your hands, then using a paper towel to turn off the faucet and push open the door, so you don’t re-contaminate your newly clean hands.
Wash Your Hands — The Right Way

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You’ve been washing your hands regularly since you were a kid, but odds are you’re not doing it properly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you wash your hands for a full 20 seconds (the amount of time it takes you […]