Idle AWS databases, often overlooked, can accumulate charges and pose risks like sprawl and security vulnerabilities.Characteristics of idle instances include zero active connections, minimal IOPS, and low CPU usage.Cost implications of idle RDS instances can lead to significant charges, impacting budget forecasts.Idle databases complicate decision-making, slow down operations, and increase attack surfaces.Common sources of idle databases include short-lived environments that overstay, post-migration leftovers, and dormant archives.Idle databases often hide in non-production environments, automated systems, multi-region setups, and legacy tiers.Remediating idle AWS databases involves identifying, verifying ownership, choosing appropriate strategies, and updating network and access configurations.Automating ongoing idle detection is essential to prevent future idle database sprawl and ensure timely remediation.Data retention requirements must be considered before taking any remediation action on an idle database.Choosing the right remediation strategy for each idle database is crucial, considering factors like cost, risk, and future accessibility.