Crossword Genius

The cleaner was not him! (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

washer

'the cleaner' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'was not him' is the wordplay.
'not him' becomes 'her' (I've seen this in another clue).
'was'+'her'='WASHER'

(Other definitions for washer that I've seen before include "Cleaner" , "Joint-sealing ring" , "Seal preventing leakage" , "Tap seal" , "Plumber's rubber ring" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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