Crossword Genius

Check fellow is cleaner (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

detergent

'cleaner' is the definition.
(detergent is a kind of cleaner)

'check fellow' is the wordplay.
'check' becomes 'deter' (I've seen this in other clues).
'fellow' becomes 'gent' (I've seen this before).
'deter'+'gent'='DETERGENT'

'is' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for detergent that I've seen before include "Soluble cleanser" , "Synthetic cleaning substance for washing machines" , "Cleaning product" , "cleaner" , "help with the washing-up" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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