I have a few questions and i'll list them by number:

1) I'm looking for a gun safe to hold 0 - 6 long guns, as wells as a top shelf for ammo, handguns, etc.  Its more of a "keep kids out" as opposed to "keep bad guys out" safe, and i intend to bolt to wall or floor, and i would like to spend less than 250.   The cheaper long gun safes at walmart would work but no top shelf for small guns/ammo and i'm not a handy man :)

2) with a new baby in the home, night stand carry will be extinct soon, unless i can find a QUICK ACCESS safe to hold the gun. again, keep kids out, not bad guys.

3) what is the best and most cost effective product you put into your safe to keep the moisture/humidity out to help preserve your guns.  Right now all mine are in their own padded cases which i guess isn't good, but better than a gun sock.

any help would be great.

Does anyone have any suggestions other than a google search?  i know at least SOME of you have your stashes locked up

http://www.ftknox.com/redesign/pistolboxes/

have several of these...work like a champ

For your stated purpose, the SentrySafe models that WalMart.com carry (ex: http://www.walmart.com/ip/SentrySafe-10-Gun-Safe-With-Electronic-LED-Lock/11064230) would be fine.  They list for a little more than your price target, but I have actually seen them on clearance in store.  Many of the local stores around me carry one or two models so you might be able to check them out there.

I used a 89.00 Stack on for a few years to keep the wife out while I saved for a real RSC.
It will keep the kids out and the honest people honest but that's about it.
You could break into it with a butter knife.
It's currently on loan to a friend with a new family while he saves up.