The phrase "lingering odors" refers to smells or scents that stay or hang in the air for a long time, even after the source of the smell is gone. Full definition
Unfortunately not, even using a household cleaner will likely mean that you are left with a stain and the awful lingering odor of your cat's urine. (best-cat-art.com)
It's rude to heat anything with a string, lingering odor in a communal work environment. (preventionrd.com)
It can be caused by bad habit and reinforced by lingering odor. (okcpetsmagazine.com)