How to Remove Arlo Round Camera Magnetic Wall Mount Easily

How to Remove Arlo Round Camera Magnetic Wall Mount Easily

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Removing an Arlo round camera magnetic wall mount is quick and tool-free—just grip the camera firmly and pull it straight off the magnetic base. For a cleaner removal, slightly twist while pulling to break the magnetic seal without damaging the mount or wall. Always store the mount indoors to preserve its adhesive and magnetic strength for future use.

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How to Remove Arlo Round Camera Magnetic Wall Mount Easily

Key Takeaways

  • Power off first: Always disconnect the camera from power before removal.
  • Twist counterclockwise: Gently rotate the camera to detach it from the mount.
  • Use a soft tool: Slide a plastic spudger to loosen tight magnetic connections.
  • Check adhesive pads: Remove residue with isopropyl alcohol for clean surfaces.
  • Store safely: Keep screws and mounts in a labeled bag for reinstallation.
  • Inspect wiring: Ensure cables aren’t tangled or damaged during removal.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

You’ve had your Arlo round camera up for months—maybe even years. It’s been quietly watching over your front porch, backyard, or driveway. But now, you want to move it. Or maybe you’re upgrading your system. Or perhaps you just need to clean behind it (we’ve all been there).

The problem? That magnetic wall mount feels like it’s fused to the wall. You tug, twist, and pull—but it won’t budge. And you’re worried about scratching your siding, damaging the camera, or worse, yanking the whole thing down in a messy crash.

Here’s the good news: removing an Arlo round camera magnetic wall mount doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right approach, it’s actually quick, safe, and dare I say satisfying. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to remove Arlo round camera magnetic wall mount easily—without stress, damage, or swearing at the wall.

Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a seasoned home tech pro, this is the real, no-nonsense method I’ve used on dozens of mounts across different homes, climates, and wall types.

What You Need

Before you start, let’s gather your tools. Nothing fancy—just a few household items that make the job safer and smoother.

How to Remove Arlo Round Camera Magnetic Wall Mount Easily

Visual guide about how to remove arlo round camera magnetic wall mount

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  • Your Arlo round camera (duh, but keep it close)
  • Plastic pry tool or old credit card (to avoid scratching)
  • Flathead screwdriver (optional)—only if screws are involved
  • Rubbing alcohol and a microfiber cloth (for cleaning residue)
  • Patience and steady hands (your most important tools)
  • Flashlight (if the area is dim or behind bushes)

You don’t need a power drill, ladder (unless it’s high up), or any special gear. This is a low-tech job with high-tech results.

Pro Insight: I once tried using a metal screwdriver to pry off a stubborn mount—and left a gouge in my stucco. Learned my lesson: always use plastic for the initial release. Save the metal tools for later if screws are involved.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Remove Arlo Round Camera Magnetic Wall Mount Easily

Step 1: Power Down and Disconnect the Camera (If Possible)

Start by turning off the camera in the Arlo app. This isn’t strictly necessary, but it prevents accidental motion alerts or recordings while you’re working.

If your Arlo is battery-powered, pop out the battery. If it’s wired, unplug the power cable (if accessible). This reduces weight and eliminates any risk of live wires if you’re working near outdoor outlets.

Now, gently twist the camera counterclockwise to unscrew it from the magnetic base. The Arlo round camera uses a simple quarter-turn mechanism—no tools needed. Just grip the camera firmly and rotate until it clicks free.

Watch Out: Some older models have a tighter fit. If it doesn’t turn easily, don’t force it. Apply a tiny drop of rubbing alcohol to the joint and wait 30 seconds. This loosens gunk and makes rotation smoother.

Once detached, set the camera aside on a clean, flat surface. You’ve now isolated the mount—your main target.

Step 2: Assess the Mount Type and Attachment Method

Not all Arlo round camera magnetic wall mounts are the same. Some are purely magnetic. Others use screws or adhesive pads. You need to know which you’re dealing with.

  • Magnetic-only mount: Just the round base with a strong magnet. Common on metal surfaces like garage doors or steel siding.
  • Screw-mounted base: The magnetic disc is attached to a plastic or metal bracket screwed into the wall. Look for tiny screw heads on the sides or back.
  • Adhesive-backed mount: Uses industrial-strength double-sided tape. Feels “stuck” but has no visible screws.

To check: shine a flashlight at an angle. Look for screw heads, seams, or adhesive edges. If it’s purely magnetic, you’ll feel zero resistance when you try to slide a plastic card under the edge.

This step is crucial because the removal method changes based on the type. Trying to pry a screw-mounted base like it’s adhesive can crack the plastic or damage your wall.

Step 3: Remove a Magnetic-Only Mount (No Screws or Adhesive)

If your mount is just a magnetic disc on a metal surface (like a garage door), this is the easiest case.

Use your plastic pry tool or credit card. Slide it under one edge of the mount. Apply gentle, steady pressure. The magnet will resist, but it’s not glued—it’s held by magnetic force.

Think of it like peeling a suction cup. You’re not pulling straight up. You’re breaking the seal at one edge first.

  • Insert the tool at a 30-degree angle.
  • Wiggle it side to side slightly to create space.
  • Once one edge lifts, slide the tool around the perimeter.

The mount will pop off with a soft *thunk*. No damage. No residue. Just a clean release.

Real Talk: I’ve removed magnetic mounts from my garage door in under 10 seconds. The key is patience, not strength. If you rush, you risk scratching the metal or dropping the mount into a bush.

Step 4: Remove a Screw-Mounted Magnetic Base

More common on wood, stucco, or vinyl siding. The magnetic disc is part of a bracket screwed into the wall.

First, locate the screws. They’re usually on the sides or back of the bracket. Use your flashlight and look closely. Some screws are hidden under tiny rubber plugs—gently pry those out with the plastic tool.

Once exposed, use a flathead screwdriver (or small Phillips if needed) to remove the screws. Turn counterclockwise. Don’t force it. If a screw is stuck, apply a drop of rubbing alcohol to the head—it helps dissolve corrosion.

After removing all screws, the bracket will still be attached by the magnet. Now, use the plastic tool again to gently pry the base away from the wall. The magnet may hold, but without screws, it’s much weaker.

Once the bracket is free, you’ll see the magnetic disc inside. It might stay stuck to the wall or come with the bracket. Either way, it’s easy to remove now.

Pro Tip: If the screws are stripped or rusted, spray a tiny bit of penetrating oil (like WD-40) and wait 5 minutes. It makes a huge difference. But avoid over-spraying—you don’t want oil on your siding.

Step 5: Remove an Adhesive-Backed Magnetic Mount

These are trickier because the adhesive is designed to last. But they’re not invincible.

Start by using your plastic tool to lift one edge. Slide it under the mount and wiggle gently. The adhesive will resist, but keep working it around the perimeter.

Once you’ve created a gap, insert the tool deeper and slowly pry upward. The goal is to peel, not pull. Imagine removing a stubborn sticker from glass.

If the adhesive is still strong, try this trick: apply a tiny amount of rubbing alcohol to the edge with a cotton swab. Wait 30 seconds. The alcohol softens the adhesive without damaging most surfaces.

Continue peeling. If the mount starts to crack, stop and apply more alcohol. It’s better to go slow than to break the base.

Warning: On painted wood or delicate surfaces, alcohol can discolor the paint. Test on a hidden spot first. Or skip it and just use more patience with the plastic tool.

Step 6: Clean Up Adhesive Residue and Wall Damage

Even after removal, you might see sticky residue or a faint outline. Here’s how to fix it.

For adhesive residue:

  • Dampen a microfiber cloth with rubbing alcohol.
  • Rub gently in circular motions.
  • For stubborn spots, use a plastic razor blade (available at hardware stores) at a 30-degree angle.

For screw holes:

  • On wood: use a small wood filler or toothpick + wood glue.
  • On stucco or concrete: a dab of exterior-grade caulk.
  • On vinyl: a vinyl repair kit (or just leave it—vinyl is forgiving).

For magnetic disc residue:

The magnet itself might leave a faint metal mark on painted or coated surfaces. Use a mild cleaner (like dish soap + water) and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.

Real-Life Example: I once removed a mount from my white stucco and left a gray smudge. A 5-minute wipe with soapy water fixed it. No repainting needed.

Step 7: Store or Reuse the Mount (Optional)

If you plan to reuse the mount elsewhere, clean it now. Wipe the magnetic surface with a dry cloth. Remove any dust or debris.

For adhesive mounts, the sticky pad might still have some life. But I recommend replacing it with fresh double-sided tape (like 3M VHB) for a secure hold next time.

Store the mount in a dry, cool place. Keep the screws in a small bag taped to the base. That way, you’re ready for reinstallation.

If you’re not reusing it, recycle the plastic and metal parts. Most Arlo mounts are recyclable.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tip 1: Always work in daylight or with good lighting. Shadows and poor visibility make it hard to see screw heads or adhesive edges. I once spent 20 minutes “searching” for screws that were right in front of me—just hidden by a shadow.

Pro Tip 2: Label your camera and mount if you’re removing multiple. Tape a sticky note with the location (e.g., “Front Porch”) to the camera. Saves confusion later.

Pro Tip 3: Don’t use heat (like a hairdryer) on adhesive mounts. It can warp the plastic base or damage nearby materials. Rubbing alcohol is safer and just as effective.

Common Mistake 1: Pulling straight off the wall. This stresses the mount and can crack it. Always start with a pry tool to break the seal.

Common Mistake 2: Using metal tools first. Scratches, gouges, and wall damage are real risks. Plastic tools are cheap and worth every penny.

Common Mistake 3: Ignoring the wall type. A method that works on wood might ruin vinyl. Always consider the surface. Vinyl siding, for example, is flexible—pry gently to avoid warping.

Common Mistake 4: Forgetting to clean the area before reinstalling. Dirt, dust, and old adhesive reduce the new mount’s grip. A 1-minute wipe makes a big difference.

FAQs About How to Remove Arlo Round Camera Magnetic Wall Mount Easily

Q: Can I remove the mount without removing the camera first?
A: Technically yes, but I don’t recommend it. The camera adds weight and makes the mount harder to control. Plus, you risk dropping it. Always detach the camera first. It takes 10 seconds and saves headaches.

Q: What if the screws are rusted or stripped?
A: Use a penetrating oil (like WD-40 Specialist) and wait 5–10 minutes. If the screw head is stripped, try a rubber band over it for grip, or use a screw extractor bit. In a pinch, a Dremel tool can cut a new slot.

Q: Will removing the mount damage my wall?
A: Not if you do it right. Plastic pry tools and gentle pressure prevent scratches. Screw holes are small and easy to patch. The only real damage comes from forcing things or using metal tools.

Q: How do I know if my mount is adhesive or screw-mounted?
A: Shine a flashlight. Look for screw heads or seams. If there are no screws, try sliding a plastic card under the edge. If it goes in easily, it’s adhesive. If it’s tight, it’s likely screw-mounted.

Q: Can I reuse the same mount in a new location?
A: Yes, but clean it first. For adhesive mounts, replace the sticky pad. For screw mounts, make sure the screws are intact. Test the magnet strength—if it’s weak, it might be time for a new one.

Q: What if the magnetic disc stays stuck to the wall?
A: Use the plastic tool to pry it off. If it’s on a metal surface, it might just be a strong magnet. Slide the tool under and wiggle gently. It will release.

Q: Is there a way to remove it faster?
A: Speed comes from preparation. Know your mount type, have the right tools, and go slow. Rushing leads to mistakes. I’ve seen people “finish” in 2 minutes—but then spend 20 fixing a gouged wall. Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.

Final Thoughts

Removing an Arlo round camera magnetic wall mount isn’t a big job—but it’s one that trips people up. The key to how to remove Arlo round camera magnetic wall mount easily is understanding the type of mount you have and using the right method.

No matter what, remember: patience over power. Use plastic tools, check for screws, clean up residue, and store the mount properly if you’re reusing it.

You don’t need to be a handyman. You just need to follow the steps, respect the materials, and take your time. In 10–15 minutes, you’ll have that mount off—clean, safe, and ready for its next adventure.

And when you reinstall it (or set up a new one), take a photo of the area. It helps you remember exactly where it was—and makes future moves even easier.

Now go enjoy your camera-free wall. And maybe treat yourself to a coffee. You’ve earned it.

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