Crossword Genius

Cleaner to discourage bloke (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

detergent

'cleaner' is the definition.
(chemical that cleans)

'discourage bloke' is the wordplay.
'discourage' becomes 'deter' (synonyms).
'bloke' becomes 'gent' (both can mean a man).
'deter'+'gent'='DETERGENT'

'to' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for detergent that I've seen before include "Soluble cleansing agent" , "Soluble cleanser" , "help with the washing-up" , "Get tender (anag)" , "Cleansing solvent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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