I've lost lots of socks. I blame it on my laundry people ,not my procedure for cataloging them in a drawer.
Two questions about the car engine.
1) How dirty can a bankers engine compartment be?
2) If you have to ask, you shouldn't be cleaning it.
Lots of things can go wrong. Electrical can be damaged immediately, or just set up corrosion for problems later. degreasers are great when used correctly. avoid degreasing anything that is suppose to have grease in it. as in bearings. I have seen a guy degrease his truck engine ,two hours later down the road his alternator pulley is locked up. Washed the grease right out of the bearings.
Rain,driving over and through shallow water, IS far different than hosing down an engine.
I am sure you could find something else to go crazy cleaning. How are your air conditioner duct in the house. Dust mites, toxic mold living there maybe?