Don't know IF there is "a best" maintanence free battery or a BEST (acid filled) battery. Everyone has their opinions based on personal experience as to which is the best. After purchase maintance is the determining factor IMO. I've used walmart batteries for years in my boat, with no issues. The cranking battery was made 5/06, still in the boat and cranks the 60 just fine. The TM battery gets used more, and usually lasts me 3+ years, which I consider normal with the use it gets.
Sounds like you need to change how you handle batteries, mabe use some rags, plastic bags etc., to protect your clothes if have to handle 'em that much. Possibly get a battery box if you have to remove the battery due to personal circumstances, which could protect your clothes to some extent from the acid. Sealed batteries can still develop a leak, or may have some acid residue on the exterior case from production handling.