cleaning engine question

[kiyakubuke]

same deal with me. I was checking the air filter, first time in the engine compartment since I bought the car. very dirty. looks mostly to be dust, so that is good. going to clean it tomorrow.
Plan is simple green and hose in the driveway. doesn't need to be spotless, but I would like to give it a rinse.

I have heard people freaking out about the prospect of cleaning an engine. back in the day I would cover the distributor with some plastic and a rubber band, but other cars I just hose them down while at the car wash. never had an issue. the only problem is, of course the proximity of the open interior. I'll do this one at home and tape and plastic off the areas around the engine compartment.