Advice needed on best way to clean engine bay

[Stewart(oily)]

There is a product called "Elbow grease" available from many places, yellow liquid in a spray bottle, usually 99p, seriously good stuff, I spray it onto engines , greasy bicycles, motorbikes, parts, Irish Bikers put me onto it, it works like "Gunk" used to, reading the small print it can damage some plastics, I have not noticed anything.

[myglaren]

I bought some "Elbow Grease" washing up liquid, probably from B&M Bargains.
I wonder if it works on engines too.

[Stickyfinger]

Tin Foil.....great for quickly protecting stuff from water/cleaning agents.
Brushes....get a pack cheap ones
Rags....more than you think...keep the oily ones and recycle them into Politicians

[Gasman14]

Screwfix no nonsense degreaser and a selection of small paint brushes and an old tooth brush always works for me. Rinse of with clean water using a garden spray bottle. Dry off with a cloth. Never use anything oily, it will only attract more dirt.

[Picasso Pain]

Thanks everyone great practical advice!
This forum been immensely helpful... much appreciated!

[Paul-R]

What have you decided to go for in the end after all the conflicting advice?

[myglaren]

What have you decided to go for in the end after all the conflicting advice?

[Doxat]

Yesterday happend to me excellent solution - radiator burst on top, and sprayed bay with hot liquid and steam.. never was more clean than is now! Recommend that to everyone

P.S. - I will open new topic about subject...