Reaping Consequences Of Cycling

[AmtotheBurr]

So I didn't cycle my new tank properly (I didn't know about this site).
The water has been treated and I did add liquid bacteria. There are artifical plants and decor from my established tank in there.
I had fish in there that weren't doing so hot so I took them all back to the store.
I don't have the exact figures but she said my water was "perfect" and everything was in acceptable ranges.
I went home did a 50% water change then added a fish from my established tank over.
He's been fine so I bought 2 more. Of the new fish, 1 was fine and 1 not so fine.
So! I have 2 fish in there now that seem to be happy and doing great but I want to know
1) if it would be beneficial for me to add some gravel or soak my used filter from my old tank in the new one to add more bacteria??
2) what test kit is most preferred that can be purchased at chain pet stores?
3) should I be doing frequent water changes at this point or leave it be since the 2 fish seem to be ok?
4)any other suggestions on how to proceed are appreciated

I was following the directions on my fish tank as far as letting it run for 24 hours before adding fish. I now realize that was an error so don't bash me bro!

 

[Ch4rlie]

I'd suggest a popular test kit a lot of folks on this forum uses, including me, is API MAster Test Kit
 
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These can be bought from a few LFS, but usually cheaper to buy online.
 
As for advice from LFS, these at best are taken with a pinch of salt, the staff either just want to sell you stuff or they simply do not know so they can make up stuff
 
So research really is key and asking advice on this forum is the way to go.
 

 

[AmtotheBurr]

Thanks for replying! I will get the test kit, thank you for your help
$24 and will be here in a few days. Thanks a bunch