The eternal chemistry lab paradox! Working chemists know that a pristine fume hood means you're either brand new or not doing enough experiments. The real pros have that perfect layer of residue that says "I'm synthesizing compounds like a boss." Meanwhile, supervisors who haven't touched a pipette in years keep preaching cleanliness. Sure, safety matters, but let's be honest—if your hood isn't slightly chaotic, are you even sciencing properly?