10/20/2026
π CASE FILE: The Wet Leaf
Location: Your hood, windshield, and roof. Basically every Wood Dale driveway right now.
Appearance: Gorgeous. Seasonal. Very photogenic.
Behavior: Suspicious.
When leaves sit on your car and stay wet, natural compounds called tannins can leach out and leave stain marks on the paint. Add fall rain, morning dew, and a car parked under a maple all week, and that pretty leaf can leave an outline you didn't ask for.
Field recommendations from the Scientists of Cleanliness:
β Brush leaves off early. Don't let them soak in.
β Check the base of your windshield, where leaves love to pile up and hold moisture.
β Never wipe a gritty, leaf-covered car with a dry rag. That's sandpaper with extra steps.
β Wash regularly this month. Unlimited Club members, this is your season.
Verdict: Admire the leaves. Just not on your hood. π
So where's your car parked right now: under a tree, or safely out of range? π