Shop windows or back of the shed wall is what I do, not sure how people go weeks without noticing lights are out.
Do they not look in the rear view mirror?
Use a drying aid,
I like CarPro Elixir, wash car & leave wet, a few sprays of Elixir on your microfiber towel & dry as usual, reapply Elixir to towel every panel.
Works for me we have hardd water.
Needs to be completely dry before oiling, I'd imagine the oil wouldn't penetrate or wick properly throughout the filter & possibly become airborne on startup.
Sounds like a vacuum leak, check all the hoses around the area you were working including the evap hoses for correct fitment.
You may have possibly cracked a brittle one removing.
I wouldn't worry about it too much unless you want a cam that is, service it every 7500 -10000 & use an engine flush every now & again.
Most of these issues arise from poor maintenance schedules.