if i replace water with non-treated water, and treat it once it's in the tank... will that kill my cycle? I've heard of people doing it both ways, and both ways are acceptable, but I want to make sure...

When I do my water change I use a Python Siphon Hose. I remove the water (while vacuuming the gravel) then I reverse the flow & replace the water. I pour the conditioner into the water flow.

I do something similar as Jeana. I siphon out the water, and then before replacing I add the water conditioner to the tank. Then I fill the tank and I'm done.

I don't think I would want to put untreated water into the tank before dosing with my water conditioner. I think it would be stressful for the fish. Too many people on this forum have lost or nearly lost fish because they forgot to add the water conditioner afterwards.

Edit for horrible typos

so remove the water, fill the bucket with fresh water, then treat the water before I put it back in the tank... does that work?

Yes, that seems like it would be perfectly fine. It would get thoroughly mixed as you pour it into the tank. Just don't forget the conditioner!!

thanks! maybe thats why my tank hasn't cycled yet...