This guide shows you how to hide Ring Doorbell 2 using smart, non-damaging techniques that preserve video quality and motion detection. Whether you want a sleeker look or to reduce visual clutter, we’ve got practical solutions for every home.
Key Takeaways
- Preserve Functionality: Hiding your Ring Doorbell 2 shouldn’t compromise its performance—choose methods that don’t block the camera or sensors.
- Use Decorative Covers: Stylish, weather-resistant covers can blend your doorbell into your home’s exterior while keeping it fully operational.
- Strategic Landscaping: Plants, trellises, or outdoor decor can naturally conceal the doorbell without obstructing its view.
- Cable Management Matters: Tidy up visible wires with raceways or in-wall kits to reduce visual clutter around the device.
- Avoid Obstructions: Never cover the lens, infrared sensors, or speaker/microphone—these are essential for alerts and two-way talk.
- Test After Installation: Always check live view and motion detection after hiding your doorbell to ensure everything works correctly.
- Consider Alternative Mounting: Relocating the doorbell slightly (within Wi-Fi range) may offer better concealment and improved coverage.
Introduction: Why You Might Want to Hide Your Ring Doorbell 2
So, you’ve installed your Ring Doorbell 2—great choice! It keeps your home secure, lets you see who’s at the door even when you’re away, and gives you peace of mind. But let’s be honest: sometimes, that sleek black or white rectangle sticking out by your front door just doesn’t match your home’s vibe. Maybe it clashes with your siding, draws too much attention, or simply feels like an eyesore in an otherwise beautiful entryway.
You’re not alone. Many homeowners love their Ring Doorbell’s features but wish it were less noticeable. The good news? You can hide your Ring Doorbell 2—without sacrificing its core functions. This guide will walk you through safe, effective, and stylish ways to make your doorbell blend in seamlessly with your home’s exterior.
We’ll cover everything from decorative covers and clever landscaping to smart mounting tricks and cable management. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to hide Ring Doorbell 2 while keeping it fully functional, secure, and ready to protect your home.
Understanding Your Ring Doorbell 2: What You Can—and Can’t—Cover
Before we dive into hiding techniques, it’s crucial to understand how your Ring Doorbell 2 works. Hiding it isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about doing so without breaking its functionality.
Your Ring Doorbell 2 has several key components:
– A wide-angle camera lens (for live view and recordings)
– Infrared (IR) night vision sensors
– A motion detection sensor (PIR sensor)
– A built-in microphone and speaker (for two-way audio)
– A status LED light
Blocking any of these can cause problems:
– Covering the lens = blurry or blocked video
– Blocking IR sensors = poor night vision
– Obstructing the motion sensor = missed alerts
– Muffling the mic/speaker = garbled audio
So, when learning how to hide Ring Doorbell 2, remember: concealment ≠ coverage. You want to make it less visible, not unusable.
What’s Safe to Hide?
– The main body of the doorbell (as long as vents and sensors aren’t blocked)
– Visible wiring
– The mounting bracket (if replaced with a low-profile option)
What Must Stay Clear?
– The camera lens (front center)
– The motion sensor (usually below the lens)
– The microphone and speaker grilles
– The status LED (small light near the top)
Keep these areas unobstructed, and you’re golden.
Method 1: Use a Decorative Doorbell Cover
One of the easiest and most effective ways to hide your Ring Doorbell 2 is with a decorative cover. These are designed specifically for Ring devices and come in various styles to match your home’s exterior.
Why Choose a Cover?
Decorative covers are popular because they:
– Are easy to install (no tools or rewiring needed)
– Come in materials like metal, wood, or weather-resistant plastic
– Offer styles ranging from modern to rustic
– Don’t interfere with Wi-Fi, motion detection, or video quality
Top Cover Options for Ring Doorbell 2
- Ring Official Corner Mount & Cover: While not a full cover, this angled mount lets you position the doorbell flush against a corner, making it less prominent. Pair it with a decorative plate for extra stealth.
- Third-Party Metal Covers: Brands like EKEN and Smonet offer brushed aluminum or matte black covers that snap over the doorbell. They’re sleek, durable, and designed with cutouts for sensors and lens.
- Wooden or Faux-Stone Plates: For a more natural look, consider a wooden surround or a stone-textured plate that mounts around the doorbell. These work best when painted or stained to match your doorframe or siding.
How to Install a Decorative Cover
- Power Off (Optional but Recommended): If your doorbell is hardwired, turn off the power at the breaker to avoid any electrical issues.
- Remove the Doorbell: Unscrew the Ring Doorbell 2 from its mounting bracket using the provided security screwdriver.
- Attach the Cover or Surround: Most covers either snap on over the doorbell or mount directly to the wall around it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions—some use adhesive, others require screws.
- Reattach the Doorbell: Secure the Ring back onto its bracket, ensuring it sits flush and the cover doesn’t interfere with the lens or sensors.
- Test the System: Open the Ring app, check the live view, and trigger motion detection to confirm everything works.
Pro Tips for Using Covers
– Choose a cover with ventilation—your doorbell needs airflow to prevent overheating.
– Avoid covers that fully enclose the device unless they’re specifically designed for Ring (most aren’t).
– If painting a wooden surround, use exterior-grade paint to prevent weather damage.
– Clean the cover periodically to avoid dust buildup that could affect sensors.
Method 2: Strategic Landscaping and Outdoor Decor
If you prefer a more natural approach, landscaping and outdoor decor can help hide your Ring Doorbell 2 in plain sight.
Use Plants to Your Advantage
Greenery is a beautiful and effective way to blend your doorbell into the environment. But remember: don’t block the camera or sensors.
Best Plants for Concealment
- Low-Growing Shrubs: Boxwood, dwarf yaupon holly, or liriope can create a soft border around your doorbell without obstructing the view.
- Vines on Trellises: Install a small trellis beside your door and grow climbing plants like clematis or jasmine. The foliage will partially obscure the doorbell while allowing light and airflow.
- Potted Plants: Place decorative pots on either side of the door. Use tall grasses or ornamental ferns to draw the eye away from the doorbell.
Important Landscaping Tips
– Trim plants regularly—overgrown foliage can block the camera or trigger false motion alerts.
– Avoid planting directly in front of the doorbell. Leave at least 6–12 inches of clearance.
– Use non-reflective plants to reduce glare on the lens.
Outdoor Decor Ideas
– Hang a decorative wall plaque or metal art piece slightly above or beside the doorbell.
– Install a small shelf or ledge and place a potted plant or lantern on it.
– Use outdoor string lights or lanterns to create visual interest that distracts from the doorbell.
Example: The “Camouflage Corner” Setup
Imagine your front door has a small corner with a brick wall. You install a wrought-iron wall sconce just above the doorbell and hang a trailing ivy plant in a hanging basket. The sconce draws the eye upward, while the ivy softly frames the doorbell without blocking it. Result? Your Ring Doorbell 2 is still fully functional—but much less noticeable.
Method 3: Relocate the Doorbell (Safely and Legally)
Sometimes, the best way to hide your Ring Doorbell 2 is to move it to a less obvious spot. But this requires careful planning.
Can You Move Your Ring Doorbell 2?
Yes—but with limits. The Ring Doorbell 2 connects via Wi-Fi, so it must stay within range of your router (typically 100–300 feet, depending on walls and interference). It also needs a power source: either existing doorbell wiring or a rechargeable battery.
Best Alternative Locations
- Beside the Door (Not Above): Mount the doorbell at eye level on the doorframe or adjacent wall. This is less traditional but often less noticeable.
- Under an Eave or Awning: If your porch has an overhang, mount the doorbell underneath. It’s protected from rain and blends into the architecture.
- On a Gate or Fence Post: For homes with a front gate, mounting the doorbell there can be a smart alternative—especially if the main door is hard to access.
How to Relocate Your Ring Doorbell 2
- Check Wi-Fi Signal: Use the Ring app’s “Device Health” feature to test signal strength at the new location. You need at least 2–3 bars.
- Assess Power Options: If using battery power, relocation is easy. For hardwired setups, you may need to run new wires (consider hiring an electrician).
- Install the Mounting Bracket: Use the included screws and anchors to secure the bracket at the new spot. Ensure it’s level and stable.
- Attach the Doorbell: Slide the Ring Doorbell 2 onto the bracket and secure with the security screw.
- Test and Adjust: Check the live view and adjust the angle if needed. Use the app’s motion zones to fine-tune detection.
Legal and Safety Considerations
– Don’t mount the doorbell in a way that blocks emergency access or violates local codes.
– Avoid placing it where it could be easily tampered with or stolen.
– If mounting on a shared wall (like in an apartment), get permission from your landlord or HOA.
Method 4: Hide the Wires (For Hardwired Setups)
Even if you can’t fully hide the doorbell, you can reduce visual clutter by hiding the wires. This is especially helpful if your doorbell is hardwired and the cables are visible along the wall.
Why Hide the Wires?
Exposed wires look messy and can attract pests or moisture. Plus, a clean installation makes the whole setup less noticeable.
Options for Wire Management
- Surface-Mounted Raceways: These plastic or metal channels attach to the wall and conceal wires. They’re easy to install with adhesive or screws and come in colors to match your siding.
- In-Wall Wire Kits: For a truly hidden look, use a Ring-approved in-wall wiring kit. This involves running wires inside the wall—best done during construction or with professional help.
- Cable Clips and Ties: Use weather-resistant clips to secure wires tightly against the wall, minimizing visibility.
How to Install a Surface Raceways
- Measure the Wire Path: Determine the shortest route from the doorbell to the chime or transformer.
- Cut the Raceway: Use a hacksaw or utility knife to cut the raceway to size.
- Attach to the Wall: Peel off the adhesive backing or use screws to secure the raceway. Make sure it’s level.
- Route the Wires: Place the wires inside the raceway and snap the cover closed.
- Paint to Match (Optional): Use exterior paint to blend the raceway with your wall color.
Pro Tip:
If you’re renting or don’t want to drill holes, opt for adhesive raceways. They hold well on smooth surfaces and can be removed without damage.
Method 5: Paint or Camouflage the Mounting Area
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. If your doorbell stands out because of its contrast with the wall, consider painting the surrounding area to match.
Paint the Wall Around the Doorbell
– Use exterior paint that matches your doorbell’s color (black, white, or bronze).
– Paint a small section of the wall or doorframe to create a “frame” that blends the device in.
– Avoid painting over the doorbell itself—this can damage the finish and void the warranty.
Use a Matching Backplate
Some homeowners create or buy a custom backplate that matches their siding. For example:
– A black metal plate on a dark brick wall
– A white painted wood surround on a light-colored doorframe
This creates a cohesive look and makes the doorbell feel like part of the design—not an add-on.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Hiding Your Doorbell
Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix common problems.
Problem: Poor Video Quality After Hiding
Cause: The lens is partially blocked by a cover, plant, or debris.
Solution: Check the lens for obstructions. Clean it with a microfiber cloth. Ensure any cover has a clear opening for the camera.
Visual guide about How to Hide Ring Doorbell 2
Image source: microless.com
Problem: Motion Alerts Stop Working
Cause: The PIR sensor is blocked or the doorbell is too close to heat sources (like vents or sunlight).
Solution: Reposition the doorbell or remove obstructions. Adjust motion zones in the app to reduce false triggers.
Problem: Audio Is Muffled
Cause: The speaker or microphone is covered by a thick material.
Solution: Use a cover with proper ventilation and speaker grilles. Avoid fabric or foam-based hides.
Problem: Doorbell Overheats
Cause: Poor airflow due to an enclosed cover or direct sunlight.
Solution: Choose a cover with ventilation slots. Avoid mounting in direct afternoon sun if possible.
Problem: Wi-Fi Signal Drops After Relocation
Cause: The new location is too far from the router or has interference.
Solution: Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network to boost signal. Test signal strength in the app before finalizing the mount.
Final Tips for a Successful Hide
– Start Small: Try a decorative cover or plant first before moving the doorbell.
– Test Everything: Always check video, audio, and motion detection after making changes.
– Think Long-Term: Choose materials that won’t fade, rust, or degrade in weather.
– Stay Legal: Ensure your setup complies with local laws and HOA rules.
– Keep It Clean: Dust and dirt can build up on covers and lenses—clean regularly.
Conclusion: Hide Your Ring Doorbell 2 with Confidence
Hiding your Ring Doorbell 2 doesn’t mean compromising on security or functionality. With the right approach, you can make it blend beautifully into your home’s exterior while keeping all its smart features intact.
Whether you choose a sleek decorative cover, clever landscaping, or a strategic relocation, the key is to hide smart, not hard. Always prioritize clear sightlines for the camera and sensors, manage wires neatly, and test your setup thoroughly.
Now that you know how to hide Ring Doorbell 2, you can enjoy both a stylish entryway and top-tier home security. Your front door should welcome guests—not draw attention to tech. With these tips, your Ring Doorbell can do its job quietly, effectively, and in style.