About Cillit Bang
Cillit Bang burst onto the UK cleaning scene in November 2004, immediately establishing itself as a power-cleaning force with memorable advertising that made it a household name. Made by Reckitt (formerly Reckitt Benckiser), the brand was designed to create a new segment in the cleaning market, offering tough solutions for stubborn household grime. The brand became synonymous with Barry Scott, the enthusiastic fictional spokesperson who appeared from 2005 with his instantly recognisable catchphrase "Bang! And the dirt is gone!" Portrayed by actor Neil Burgess, Barry Scott became a cult figure and one of the longest-running mascots on British TV. The infomercial-style adverts created by J Walter Thompson were deliberately over-the-top, yet proved remarkably effective at establishing brand recognition. Cillit Bang's product range targets the toughest cleaning challenges. Limescale removers tackle bathroom buildup, while degreasers cut through kitchen grease. Mould and mildew solutions address damp areas, and multi-purpose power cleaners handle general household tasks. The brand consistently positions itself as the powerful option when standard cleaners fall short. After 20 years as a British cleaning staple, Cillit Bang has become embedded in UK popular culture. Barry Scott's retirement in 2016 marked the end of an advertising era, though the brand continues to offer its powerful cleaning formulas. The product's journey from Hungarian launch in 2003 to British icon demonstrates effective branding combined with genuine cleaning performance.