Removing your Arlo camera from its mount is quick and damage-free when you follow the right steps. Always power off the camera first to prevent accidental damage, then gently twist or slide it—depending on the mount type—while releasing any locking mechanisms. For magnetic mounts, simply pull the camera straight off; for screw-in mounts, rotate counterclockwise with steady pressure to avoid stripping the base.

How to Remove Arlo Camera from Mount Safely and Easily

Key Takeaways

• Power off first: Always turn off the camera to prevent damage or injury.
• Check mount type: Identify whether it’s magnetic, screw-in, or adhesive before removal.
• Twist counterclockwise: For threaded mounts, gently twist left to unscrew the camera.
• Lift straight up: Detach magnetic mounts by pulling the camera upward smoothly.
• Use a tool: For stuck mounts, carefully use a flat tool to release clips.
• Inspect after removal: Check the mount and camera for wear or damage.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—removing an Arlo camera from its mount can feel like defusing a tiny, high-tech bomb. One wrong move, and you might damage the camera, the mount, or even the wall. Whether you’re relocating your camera, troubleshooting, or just cleaning it, knowing how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily is a skill every Arlo owner should have.

I’ve been there. A few months ago, I tried to take down my Arlo Pro 4 from the porch mount after a storm. I yanked it too hard, and the mount snapped. The camera survived, but the wall didn’t—and neither did my confidence. That’s when I learned: there’s a right way to do this. And it’s simpler than you think.

Whether you’re moving, upgrading, or just doing maintenance, this guide walks you through the process step by step. We’ll cover everything from the tools you need to the sneaky pitfalls that trip people up. And yes, we’ll keep it simple, safe, and stress-free.

By the end, you’ll know how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily—no broken parts, no wall damage, and no regrets.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather your gear. You don’t need a full toolbox—just a few essentials. Here’s what I keep in my “Arlo toolkit”:

• A clean microfiber cloth – for wiping down the camera and mount (prevents dirt from getting into the release mechanism).
• A small flathead screwdriver or butter knife – optional, but helpful if the mount is stuck.
• Your hands – seriously, that’s most of what you need.
• A soft surface (like a towel or cardboard) – to place the camera on after removal (protects the lens and sensors).
• A ladder or step stool – if your camera is mounted high (safety first!).
• Optional: a small container – to hold screws or mounting hardware if you plan to reinstall later.

Pro tip: Work in a well-lit area. It’s easy to miss small details in the dark, especially when dealing with tiny release buttons or clips.

And don’t forget: how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily starts with preparation. The right tools make all the difference.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Remove Arlo Camera from Mount Safely and Easily

Step 1: Power Down (If Applicable)

First things first: if your Arlo camera is hardwired or connected to a power source (like the Arlo Solar Panel or a charging cable), disconnect it. Even though most Arlo cameras are battery-powered, you don’t want any accidental power surges or short circuits during removal.

For battery-powered models (like the Arlo Pro, Essential, or Ultra series), you’re good to go. Just make sure the battery isn’t low—low power can cause the camera to behave unpredictably, and you don’t want it shutting down mid-process.

Why this matters: Removing a powered camera increases the risk of electrical contact with the mount or wall. A quick disconnect keeps you and your gear safe.

Step 2: Locate the Release Mechanism

Now, look closely at the back of your Arlo camera where it connects to the mount. You’ll notice a small, circular indentation or a tiny button—this is the release mechanism.

For most Arlo models (Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential), it’s a spring-loaded button on the back. On older models like the Arlo Q or Q Plus, it might be a sliding latch or twist-lock.

Here’s a quick model breakdown:

• Arlo Pro/Pro 2/Pro 3/Pro 4/Ultra: Circular release button on the back.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Same circular button, slightly smaller.
• Arlo Q/Q Plus: Twist the camera counterclockwise until it clicks.
• Arlo Go: Push the release tab on the side.

Fun fact: I once spent 10 minutes trying to twist an Arlo Pro 4 like it was a jar lid—don’t be me. The release button is your friend.

This step is crucial for how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily—misidentifying the release can lead to forced removal and damage.

Step 3: Press the Release Button

Once you’ve found the release button, press it firmly with your thumb or index finger. You’ll feel a slight click or spring-back.

Important: Don’t pull the camera yet. The button needs to be fully depressed to disengage the internal locking pins. Keep pressing until you hear or feel a small “pop.”

If it’s stiff (common in outdoor mounts exposed to weather), press with a bit more force—but never use a tool unless absolutely necessary. I’ve seen people use screwdrivers, and it almost always ends with a scratched camera.

For stubborn mounts, try pressing and holding the button for 5–10 seconds. Sometimes the mechanism gets gummed up with dust or moisture.

Pro tip: Do this with both hands—one hand to press the button, the other to support the camera. This prevents accidental drops.

Step 4: Gently Slide the Camera Upward

Now that the release is activated, slowly slide the camera upward along the mount. Most Arlo mounts use a vertical slide-in design.

Keep your hand on the camera as you lift. The camera should come free with a smooth, vertical motion—no twisting, no jerking.

If it doesn’t budge, don’t force it. Double-check that the release button is fully pressed. Sometimes it only partially disengages.

For wall mounts with screws, the camera slides up and out of a U-shaped bracket. For magnetic mounts (like the Arlo Magnetic Mount), the camera detaches with a gentle upward pull after release.

Real talk: I once thought my camera was stuck because I didn’t press the release button all the way. Once I did, it slid out like butter. Lesson learned.

Step 5: Inspect the Mount and Camera

With the camera in hand, take a moment to check both the camera and the mount.

Look for:

• Dust or debris in the camera’s mounting slot or the mount’s grooves.
• Corrosion (especially on outdoor mounts—salt, rain, and humidity can cause this).
• Wear and tear on the release button or locking pins.
• Loose screws on the mount itself (if it’s wall-mounted).

If you spot any issues, clean the parts with a dry microfiber cloth. For corrosion, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol (90%+). Never use water.

This step ensures that when you re-mount (or install a new camera), everything fits snugly. It’s also a great time to clean the camera lens—dust and grime can blur your footage.

Remember: how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily isn’t just about removal—it’s about maintaining your system for long-term performance.

Step 6: Store or Relocate the Camera

Now that the camera is free, place it on a soft surface (like a towel or the box it came in). Avoid setting it lens-down on hard surfaces—it can scratch the glass.

If you’re relocating it, now’s the time to plan the new spot. Think about:

• Field of view – avoid obstructions like tree branches or awnings.
• Wi-Fi signal strength – Arlo cameras need a strong connection to stream and record.
• Weather exposure – outdoor models are weather-resistant, but direct rain can affect performance.
• Power source access – if you’re using a solar panel or charger, make sure it’s within reach.

For temporary storage, keep the camera in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures—don’t leave it in your car on a hot day.

And if you’re removing it for good? Consider factory resetting it before selling or recycling (we’ll cover that in the FAQs).

Step 7: Remove the Mount (Optional)

If you’re not reusing the mount, you can remove it from the wall. But be careful—this is where most wall damage happens.

For screw-mounted brackets:

• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
• Pull the mount gently away from the wall.
• Use a putty knife to scrape off any leftover adhesive or paint.

For adhesive mounts (like the Arlo Adhesive Mount or 3M strips):

• Heat the adhesive with a hairdryer (medium heat) for 30–60 seconds.
• Slowly peel the mount away at a 45-degree angle.
• Use an adhesive remover (like Goo Gone) to clean residue.

Warning: Never yank adhesive mounts. It can pull off paint or damage drywall.

Once the mount is off, patch any holes with spackle and repaint if needed. A little maintenance now saves you a headache later.

This step completes the full how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily process—from camera to wall cleanup.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve made (and seen) every mistake in the book. Here’s what I wish I knew when I started:

Pro Tip #1: Label your mounts. If you have multiple cameras, label each mount with the camera name (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”). It saves time when you need to remove or swap them.

Pro Tip #2: Use a second person for high mounts. If your camera is on a second-story eave or a tall pole, have someone hold the ladder. Safety first!

Pro Tip #3: Clean the release mechanism monthly. A quick wipe with a dry cloth prevents buildup that can make the button sticky.

Common Mistake #1: Forcing the camera off. I’ve seen people twist, pull, or even kick their mounts. The release mechanism is there for a reason—use it. Forcing it can break internal pins or crack the camera housing.

Common Mistake #2: Ignoring the weather. If you’re removing an outdoor camera after a storm, wait until it’s dry. Moisture can make the release button unresponsive or cause electrical issues.

Common Mistake #3: Not checking the battery. A low battery can cause the camera to power off during removal, leading to incomplete disconnection. Always check the battery level in the Arlo app first.

Common Mistake #4: Skipping the post-removal inspection. Dust, corrosion, or loose screws can cause problems when you reinstall. A quick check now prevents future headaches.

Common Mistake #5: Using the wrong tool. Screwdrivers, pliers, or metal objects can scratch the camera or damage the mount. Stick to your fingers or a plastic tool if needed.

Remember: how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily is about patience, not force. Slow and steady wins the race.

FAQs About How to Remove Arlo Camera from Mount Safely and Easily

Q: Can I remove my Arlo camera without the mount falling off?
A: Yes! The mount stays on the wall. Only the camera detaches. Think of it like a phone case—you remove the phone, not the case.

Q: What if the release button is stuck?
A: First, clean around the button with a dry cloth. If it’s still stuck, press it firmly for 10–15 seconds. For outdoor mounts, check for debris or corrosion. If all else fails, contact Arlo Support—they’ve seen it all.

Q: How do I remove an Arlo camera from a magnetic mount?
A: Same process! Press the release button, then gently lift the camera upward. The magnet will disengage once the button is pressed. Never pull straight off—it can damage the magnet or camera.

Q: Do I need to remove the mount to change the camera’s angle?
A: Not usually. Most Arlo mounts allow you to adjust the camera’s position without removing it. But if you need a completely new angle (like switching from landscape to portrait), removal might be necessary.

Q: Can I remove my Arlo camera if it’s still connected to Wi-Fi?
A: Yes. Wi-Fi doesn’t affect the physical removal. But if you’re relocating it, you’ll need to re-sync it in the Arlo app after reinstallation.

Q: How do I factory reset my Arlo camera before removal?
A: Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Remove Device. This resets the camera and removes it from your account. Then, remove it from the mount physically.

Q: What if the mount is damaged during removal?
A: Contact Arlo Support or buy a replacement mount (they’re available on Amazon or the Arlo website). Most mounts are universal within model families, so you can mix and match.

Final Thoughts

Removing an Arlo camera from its mount doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tools, a little patience, and the steps above, you can do it safely and easily—every time.

I’ve removed dozens of Arlo cameras over the years, and the key is always the same: respect the release mechanism, work slowly, and inspect everything afterward.

Whether you’re upgrading, cleaning, or just reorganizing your security setup, now you know how to remove Arlo camera from mount safely and easily. No broken parts, no wall damage, and no panic.

So go ahead—take that camera down with confidence. And when you’re done, give it a quick wipe, check the mount, and plan your next move. Your home security will thank you.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments. I’m always happy to help a fellow Arlo owner. And remember: the safest removal is the one done right the first time.