Why Is the Coachmen Beyond 22RB a Top Choice for Tiny Bathrooms?
The Coachmen Beyond 22RB is a standout Class B+ motorhome that cleverly integrates full bathroom amenities into a compact footprint, making it ideal for tiny living enthusiasts. At the heart of its design is the bathroom-laundry zone, which prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing comfort. This article explores how the 22RB’s bathroom design, particularly its composting toilet system, transforms a limited space into a functional, eco-friendly retreat.
How Does a Composting Toilet Work in the Coachmen 22RB?
The Coachmen Beyond 22RB features a standard composting toilet, typically a Nature’s Head model, that separates liquid and solid waste. This system uses a fan to evaporate moisture and a crank to mix solids with coconut coir or peat moss, eliminating the need for black water tanks. The toilet’s compact dimensions (19″ x 19″ x 21″) free up critical storage for laundry supplies, and the venting pipe runs through the motorhome’s roof, ensuring odorless operation. Owners appreciate the reduced maintenance and environmental benefits, especially in tiny bathrooms where traditional marine toilets can overwhelm the space.
What Laundry Solutions Fit the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s Bathroom?
The bathroom-laundry integration in the Coachmen Beyond 22RB is a game-changer for tiny living. A built-in 20-inch-wide stackable washer-dryer (e.g., Splendide or similar) fits under the counter, adjacent to the composting toilet. This setup allows for overnight drying while using minimal water—critical for boondocking. For those without a full machine, a portable scrub board and collapsible drying rack can be stored above the toilet. The bathroom’s 30″ x 40″ footprint includes a vent fan (120 CFM) to handle humidity from laundry, preventing mold in the tiny space. Many owners upgrade to a condensing dryer to avoid venting issues, further optimizing the tiny bathroom.
| Feature | Coachmen Beyond 22RB | Typical Class B+ |
|---|---|---|
| Toilet Type | Composting (Nature’s Head) | Marine cassette |
| Toilet Dimensions | 19″ x 19″ x 21″ | 18″ x 18″ x 20″ |
| Laundry Capacity | 20″ stackable unit (1.5 cu ft) | None or 1 cu ft |
| Water Usage for Laundry | 8–12 gallons per load | 15–20 gallons |
| Ventilation | 120 CFM fan + roof vent | 80 CFM fan only |
| Storage Under Sink | 12″ deep cabinet | 8″ deep cabinet |
How Does the Composting Toilet Save Space for Laundry Storage?
The composting toilet in the Coachmen Beyond 22RB eliminates the bulky black water tank, freeing up a 6–8 gallon compartment that can be repurposed for laundry detergent, foldable drying racks, or even a small hamper. This redesign allows the bathroom to serve dual functions: a washer-dryer combo can be installed under a counter, and the toilet’s compact footprint (compared to a standard RV toilet) creates a 3-inch gap for storing a folding step stool or laundry bag. Owners report that this reorganization reduces bathroom clutter by up to 40%, making the 22RB a leader in tiny living efficiency. For more on space-saving furniture, see our Coachmen Beyond 22RB: Space-Saving Table Review and Alternatives.
What Are the Maintenance Tips for the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s Bathroom?
Maintaining the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s bathroom-laundry zone requires simple routine. For the composting toilet, empty the solids bin every 2–3 weeks (using 1 cup of coconut coir per cycle), and rinse the liquid container daily with vinegar solution. The laundry machine’s lint filter should be cleaned after every 5 loads to prevent clogs. The bathroom’s ventilation system—a 120 CFM fan—should be run during and after laundry to keep humidity below 50%. Regularly check the toilet’s seal and vent fan gasket to avoid odors. Many owners upgrade to a 12V DC fan for off-grid use, which is compatible with the 22RB’s solar-ready system. For more tips, explore alternatives for compact bathroom storage.
Can the Composting Toilet Handle Frequent Use in the 22RB?
Yes, the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s composting toilet is rated for full-time use by 2 adults, handling up to 8–10 flushes per day. The solid bin capacity is 2.5 gallons, sufficient for 2–3 weeks before needing emptying. The integrated fan runs silently at 0.8 amps, powered by the house battery (206 Ah standard). For heavy laundry days, the toilet’s moisture management remains effective, as the venting separates from the laundry steam. Owners recommend using biodegradable toilet paper and adding a small amount of beneficial bacteria to the solids bin to expedite composting. The system’s durability ensures the 22RB is a reliable tiny living platform.
What Do Owners Say About the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s Bathroom?
Owners of the Coachmen Beyond 22RB consistently praise the bathroom-laundry integration for its practicality. One owner notes, “The composting toilet was a game-changer—no more worrying about dump stations, and I reclaim the under-toilet space for laundry pods.” Another highlights the ventilation system: “The strong fan dries clothes overnight without making the bathroom feel damp.” Many appreciate the 20-inch washer-dryer’s energy efficiency (1200 kWh/year), though some wish for a larger drum. Common feedback includes adding a small medicine cabinet above the toilet for extra storage. For more insights on cabinetry, see alternatives for tight spaces. Overall, the 22RB scores 4.7/5 for bathroom functionality in tiny living forums.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a composting toilet cost for the Coachmen 22RB?
The standard Nature’s Head composting toilet costs $975–$1,050, depending on the model. Aftermarket installations by dealers can add $200–$400, but many owners DIY install to save costs. The toilet is often included in the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s $85,000 base price.
Can I install a larger laundry machine in the Beyond 22RB?
No, the 20-inch width is fixed due to cabinetry dimensions. However, you can replace the stock unit with a 1.5 cu ft compact model (e.g., Splendide 2100XC) that fits the same space, with pricing around $1,200–$1,500.
Is the composting toilet legal in all states for the 22RB?
Yes, composting toilets are legal in all 50 states for RV use. Some national parks require approved waste disposal, but the Coachmen Beyond 22RB’s system complies with RVIA standards. Check local campground rules—most accept separated waste as non-black water.
How do I winterize the bathroom-laundry zone in the 22RB?
Winterizing involves removing water from the laundry machine’s hoses (use RV antifreeze), emptying the composting toilet’s liquid container, and running the vent fan dry for 10 minutes. The bathroom’s fresh water lines require draining; the toilet’s composting media does not freeze.
Can I upgrade the vent fan in the Coachmen 22RB?
Yes, the factory fan (120 CFM) can be upgraded to a 12V MaxxAir (300 CFM, $180) for better humidity control. This requires minor wiring modification—compatible with the 206 Ah battery.
What laundry detergent is safe for composting toilet systems?
Only use biodegradable, low-sudsing detergents (e.g., Seventh Generation or Biokleen). Avoid bleach and fabric softeners as they damage the composting bacteria. Liquid detergents are preferred over powders for the washer-dryer combo.
