Is there anything I can do to prolong the life of the mold?

Using mold release before pouring parts can double the life of your mold. You can also use/wipe Alumilites Silicone Oil on the mold surface before storing it. Over time, the silicone oil will absorb into the silicone rubber mold to replenish some of the oil that has been lost during normal casting and demolding of your parts. The other option is to use a bake-out process. A bake-out process of the silicone rubber will help remove hardeners, plasticizers, and other materials that leach out of the casting resin materials that are on the mold's surface. A slow gradual bake of 200 degrees F for 8 hours or 400 degrees F for 2 hours is recommended. This will also draw silicone oil within the rubber mold back to the surface to replenish what has been depleted. It is recommended to do this throughout the entire life of the mold rather than only when the mold dries out and is near the end of its life.