Improved bales may be formed using methods that include baling equipment with multi-component bolster assemblies that may ease installation and removal, reduce wear and tear and maintenance, and/or improve efficiency by reducing material waste, imperfections, and/or contamination. The bolster assemblies may include a plurality of coupling portions that engage a hydraulic rod and may enable the bolster assembly to self-center within a press chamber during normal baling operations. The bolster assemblies also may include an island portion that may be attached to the coupling portions and to a bolster cap, and the latter may be attached using retainer bolts having substantially flat, non-circular heads. The bolts may reduce irregularities in the bale and/or prevent material seepage into the bolster assemblies. During maintenance, an operator may remove only the bolster cap island assembly for cleaning, substantially reducing the time and strength needed to clean and/or repair the baler and reduce downtime.