One weekend you’re hibernating in sweats and the next you’re testing room sprays at Target and replacing your kitchen sponge. It’s almost time. With roots in biology, religion and tradition, spring cleaning is a global rite.

Google “biggest turnoffs for homebuyers.” Some lists include dirty windows and weedy yards. Others include popcorn ceilings, wacky paintjobs and ratty carpet. But one word appears high on everybody’s list: Clutter.