When you cleaned up the tank, did you use tap water? If you did, and you have chlorinated water, you probably killed off all the bacteria built up. Made the same mistake when I was starting out. We learn from our mistakes. You can keep the fish you have and do a fish in cycle, or rehome them and do a fishless cycle. If you do a fish in cycle, be prepared to do ALOT of water changes. The liquid test kits are much better than the paper strips. Good luck and keep us informed of your progress. We will all help as much as possible.