I'm a germaphobe — and here's why I'm loving Walmart's free pickup service

Yahoo Life is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. While this content is written independently by our editors, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page or other compensation. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

In the early days of the pandemic, grocery shopping was what stressed me out the most.

Covered in mask and gloves, I’d head to my local store to pick up necessities all the while thinking about the multitude of germs I was picking up along the way. Unloading was the worst part — having to decontaminate everything before putting it in the pantry and fridge.

The whole process made my stress rise to the surface and set off like a geyser. Yes, I’m a germaphobe.

It’s gotten better — reports have shown that wiping groceries isn’t very helpful. But going into stores is still tough for me. Of course, I do it now and then. I popped into Walmart a few times to pick up puzzles, embroidery kits, anything to pass the time. When I ventured into the grocery section, I was shocked at the prices — they were remarkably less than that of my go-to store, even for organic produce.

Cut to this week, where a friend told me about Walmart's new Pickup & Delivery service, and I felt compelled to give it a try — not stepping foot in a store sounded like a balm to my nerve-wracked soul.

There are a few ways to get your goods. You can pickup your order at your local store for free (there's a $35 minimum) — and it's contactless. An associate will load the bags straight into your trunk! For my first time, I decided to pay the $7.95 for delivery — not getting off the sofa is what appealed to me most. You can even pay $10 for Express delivery and get your stuff in two hours or less.

Need more incentive? Right now you can score $10 off your first order with code WOWFRESH ($50 minimum).

Browsing around

Navigating the site was easy — it’s broken down into categories, highlighting specialty items like coffees. There’s a search bar if you want to get right to it, and it quickly finds your item and those similar so you can comparison shop. As a health-conscious pescatarian, I was pleased to find most of my go-tos available.

While Walmart offers same-day delivery, I must have missed my window so my order was scheduled for the next day and I was able to select a one-hour window from many available times. There’s an up-to-the-minute text option to let you know the status. It’s not like I’m going anywhere so I knew I’d be home, but I liked the gesture.

Getting my haul

The morning of, I received an email that the Lysol spray I ordered wasn’t available—not surprising this item was out of stock. At 10:51 am I received a text with a link that my groceries should arrive by 11:01 am, which was a minute into my hour window. I clicked the link and a map came up with the driver’s location. A few minutes later the doorbell rang and I found the packages delivered to my back door, as requested, and received a text telling me so.

I went out to find the bags neatly stacked on my table, and the one containing eggs was marked fragile — a clever and appreciated detail. Everything came in looking fresh, still frozen, and cold as it should be. There were no ice packs but my order got here so quickly, it was as if I’d shopped it myself.

Even if you order in advance, your items are hand-picked the same day — and when I saw my perfectly ripe avocados, I could tell. Walmart's Pickup & Delivery associates actually go through 'academy training' prior to being certified pickers, so basically they're going to get you the good stuff. I also liked that there's a guarantee; if you’re unhappy with any of your items, you can let Walmart know on the app and get a refund.

I do wish they used less bags, but I see why they didn’t: The goods were packed by category. Beyond that, shopping at Walmart was an overall great experience. I may never need to change out of my pjs again.

Seventh Generation Lemongrass Citrus Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner

This surface cleaner was a no-brainer. I appreciate Seventh Generations’ mission — clean without harming the environment. This lemongrass disinfectant kills 99 percent of bacteria and viruses. It’s a ‘no rinse’ formula and safe on food and toys. This is perfect for when I’m compelled to spray those blueberries with disinfectant.

OLLY Immunity Gummy, Immune Support, 45-count

I’ve been using OLLY vitamin gummies for a few years now. They’re made with all natural ingredients, like beet sugar, and the flavors are appealing and not too sweet. I was searching for the brand’s STRESS gummies, but they were out of stock. The prices are so good, I opted for the IMMUNITY. I’ve not seen it anywhere for less than $14, so for $13 it was worth stocking up.

Beyond Meat Beyond Burger Patties, half-pound

Since I’ve shifted to a plant-based diet, Beyond Meat is one of my staples. It has 20 grams of protein per serving and is surprisingly delicious. The patties are convenient for making 10-minute meals and it really quells those burger cravings.

Food for Life Ezekiel 4:9 Bread, 24-ounce

I try to stay away from white breads and sugar. Ezekiel’s organic sprouted bread contains neither — it’s a great alternative to traditional options, providing protein, amino acids and nutrients.

Starbucks Decaf Ground Coffee—House Blend, 12-ounce

A good decaf is hard to find. I’ve been caffeine-free for years, but I still love the taste of coffee. Walmart offers Starbucks decaf, so I know I’m getting the good stuff. While I prefer whole bean, so I can grind it myself, I’ll gladly take Walmart’s pre-ground option for the convenience.

Germ-X Hand Sanitizer, 8-ounce

Never hurts to stock up on hand sanitizer, and at $2 for an 8-ounce bottle, it’s nice to see a reasonable pre-COVID price for Germ-x. Since the alcohol can be drying, the added Vitamin E is by no means remiss.

Pure Balance Grain-Free Wet Cat Food, Chicken & Sweet Potato, 3-ounce

I try and keep my kitties healthy too. I was looking for another brand, but was happy to find this limited ingredient option. My cats are finicky so it’s nice to be able to try a few different flavors in the small-size cans to see if they’ve found a new favorite.

Organic Hass Avocados, 3 to 5 count

Walmart has a great organic section and the prices are so affordable — this bag of 3 to 5 avocados is only $3. All of the organic options were markedly less expensive than competitors. Score.

Read More from Yahoo Life:

• Walmart's new delivery service helped my diabetic mom in a pinch—here's how

• This Tineco cordless vac is basically a Dyson—and it's on sale for just $99 at Walmart

• We're calling it: This is the best robovac deal on the web — it's just $149!

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.

Want daily pop culture news delivered to your inbox? Sign up here for Yahoo Entertainment & Life's newsletter.