They look so innocent.

Unfortunately, lift buttons fall into the same category as doorknobs, water faucets, handrails, money and humans. They can't be trusted. I never touch lift buttons without protection. On the rare occasion when I feel like being dramatic, I will press the lift button with my knee. This action protects you from germs and is an excellent flexibility challenge. Avoid this move if you are wearing a short skirt, tight pants or a cast. I once encountered a self-sanitizing toilet flusher, but I was skeptical. My foot still had to do the dirty work.