Hi caitlynn
Unfortunately, from what I've read cycle contains the wrong kind of bacteria. Like you said, you would have to keep buying that stuff and I know you don't want to waste your money. I would stop using it and let your tank cycle.
The strips are very accurate, I'd suggest getting the API master kit, it's highly recommended here.
You don't say what your ammonia reading is, I'm thinking it wouldn't be accurate anyway since you're using the strips.
Anyway, stop using cycle. Use Prime as your water condition, it helps neutralize ammonia.
Basically the nitrogen cycle works like this:
First the ammonia will begin rising, a few weeks or so later you should see the nitrite levels rising and the ammonia levels dropping
after a few more weeks you should see the nitrate levels rising and the nitrite levels dropping. When the ammonia and nitrites drop back down to 0 with some nitrates showing, your tank is cycled and safe for your fish.
Since both ammonia and nitrites can be deadly to your fish, you'll need to begin doing 50% water changes daily. test the water daily and keep track of the results.
Here's some information about the nitrogen cycle:
http://www.fishlore.com/NitrogenCycle.htm
There's a product called Bio-Spira that many of our members have had success with in cycling their tank. I don't have experience with it. Hopefully someone else will come along and explain it.
Oh, one thing I remember reading is if you use Bio-Spria, you should use something other than Prime to condition the water. There's a thread on the forum about it.
Sorry the post is so long, Good luck.
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