The increasing prevalence of water scarcity has spurred a surge in research efforts globally. To test and validate new concepts and ideas, readily accessible data is crucial for thorough evaluation. In this study, we examine recently published household water datasets and position them within the context of a prior review, revisiting trends theorized four years ago. Furthermore, we assess the impact these datasets have had on the research community and observe that, among more than 400 related publications, none involve an external research group reusing the published data. To provide guidance for future data collection efforts, we identify five factors that may influence external research groups’ decisions on whether to utilize published data in their studies.