The 3 Germiest Surfaces You Touch Every Day, And How to Protect Yourself

We use our hands all day long — to prepare food, carry groceries, hug our children, and, unfortunately, to pick up and spread germs.

Dr. Supriya Rao told HuffPost that "most gastrointestinal and respiratory infections spread when contaminated hands touch the eyes, nose, or mouth." While hand sanitizer can help — or at least do no harm. it is even more important to know where germs are most likely to be lurking. According to experts, these are the three dirtiest surfaces you touch every day:

1. Credit Card Terminals and Checkout Keypads

Whether you're shopping at the supermarket, a clothing store, the train station, or a neighborhood convenience store, you're likely using a payment terminal. These devices are prime breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses.

Experts explain that pressing buttons or touchscreen keypads transfers a significant number of germs between your hands and the device. Because hundreds of people use them every day, and many do not practice good hand hygiene, you could easily be exposed to influenza, COVID-19, or even Salmonella if someone handled raw meat before making a purchase.

2. Shopping Cart Handles

Think about it: the shopping cart you grab at the supermarket entrance may have been handled by hundreds of people that very day. While you're focused on choosing groceries, it's easy to forget that cart handles are common sources of germs and viruses that can contribute to sore throats, colds, and other infections.

3. Your Smartphone

Your smartphone is one of the dirtiest objects you own. It travels with you everywhere, constantly collecting bacteria and germs. And honestly, when was the last time you thoroughly cleaned it?

Dr. Rao emphasizes that your phone deserves regular attention and recommends disinfecting it with an alcohol wipe several times a week.

Pro Tip: The Right Way to Sanitize Your Hands

Many people use hand sanitizer incorrectly. For it to effectively kill germs, your hands should remain wet with the sanitizer for at least 15 seconds. Don't settle for a quick three-second rub. Give the sanitizer enough time to work before allowing your hands to dry naturally.