Crossword Genius

The cleaner was not him! (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

washer

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

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

'not him' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'him' could be 'asher' and 'asher' is found in the answer.
A single letter 'w' remains which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'was' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(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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