I just seem to have so many issues and questions haha. I get a smell from the engine sometimes, especially on a hot day or after a somewhat long ride. The engine is absoutely filthy, and has known oil leaks. Would a good cleaning help get rid of some smells? And if so, how would I go about doing it?

Yes it would. It will also make things safer by removing many fire hazards.

As for cleaning, there are commercial products that you can spray on and rinse off. I use a product like simple green and a roll of paper towels. Just spray and wipe. Make sure your not spraying on the alternator. Just spray the towel and wipe there. No need to get it all at once. Just start on a corner and work out from there. Once clean, keeping it that way is easy.

Ok, now I went out to autozone and bought their brand engine degreaser, what should I do, What should I cover when I rinse and such?

Should say on the bottle. But you don't want a degreaser inside the alternator.

I think fixing the known oil leaks should be your primary concern. By known oil leaks does that mean you see where it is leaking, or know what the issue is? If not, give us some clues so we can point you in the right direction. It would be a good idea to start a thread in the correct mechanical section for that issue.

Ive been told by multiple mechanics that its leaking from almost everywhere it can leak... Since I'm only 17 and pay for all my repairs myself and have no automotive experience I figure I'll just add oil every now and then...

Getting everything clean is the best way to find any leaks. Then deal with them one at a time. Chances are the valve cover gaskets is where most of the oil is coming from.

Understood bud, everyone is feeling the hurt. You may be surprised how cheap and easy some of the repairs can be though, it doesn't hurt to ask. Plus leaking oil is a fire hazard. Cleaning it up will help like Dan mentioned, but ultimately fixing the problem may pay for itself one quart of oil at a time.

Thanks for the advice! Once the thing is clean (Which may take some time lol) I'll monitor it to see where everything is really starting to leak. Im leaving for college in a week, and may use it as a commuter car, for the 45min trip. If so, I'd like to make sure everything is clean, works well, and make sure it doesnt smell of burning oil all the time...

My mom walked out into the driveway and saw me scrubbing some of the parts with a brush.. She thinks I have a problem lol