The primary consideration guiding most parents when starting this process is going to be the budget. But before you delve into figures, you should realize that the budget generally will be dictated by exactly how much bedding you need. Are you looking only for a few decorative pillows, just a new comforter, or do you need an entire "bed in a bag" set?

A "bed in a bag" kit includes all the typical basic bedding needs: a comforter, a bedskirt, a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and at least one pillowcase (kits for full-sized beds or larger should come with two pillowcases). The cost range you're looking at will vary substantially depending on if you need one or two individual pieces or if you're looking for the whole kit and caboodle.

The next major consideration when looking for childrens bedding is the age of the child. If you have an infant or toddler, you'll need to look for toddler bedding. It's important to measure the crib's mattress prior to making a purchase. Crib mattresses generally measure 27" x 52." Most toddler bedding is sold to fit this size, but you should double check the mattress size anyways--especially if your nursery has an antique or second-hand crib.

With adolescents and teens, you'll probably want to get some input from the kids themselves if for no other reason than simply to avoid a tantrum if it isn't "the right one." (Teens seem to be particularly susceptible to this, so if you value peace and quiet, it might be worthwhile to check with them before ordering teen bedding on their behalf.)

For the college-bound teen, you should double check with the campus housing provider regarding their bed sizes. Most college dorms use extra-long, twin-size mattresses, and standard twin bedding will not fit these beds.

Something that you and your child will want to consider is his or her specific interests. With the multitude of children's bedding manufacturers out there today, there's an almost limitless number of designs, themes, and patterns available for boys and girls to choose from. There are a plethora of sports-related options or even a specific team design for sports fanatics. Also, it seems like every cartoon and movie now includes kids bedding as part of larger marketing campaigns. While all this provides plenty of choices for kids, you will want to make sure that they can live with SpongeBob SquarePants for a while if they are lobbying for that.

Another point to consider if you're looking at interest-specific bedding is whether you want to go with these branded themes or if you'd prefer kids bedding with unbranded themes such as "flowers and butterflies," "outer space," and other fun bedding art.

The last thing you should to consider when looking for new kids bedding is the material. If you are concerned with the bedding matching your existing decor, you should make sure that the bedding you choose has a pattern, theme, or color that is agreeable to both you and your child.

The next consideration when it comes to material is: what is the fabric made of, and what is the thread count?

All you need to know about thread count is that 150 is standard-lower than 150 will feel coarser whereas good, quality sheets begin around a thread count of 180.

Comforters--specially branded themes and kids styles--are typically filled with a 100 cotton.