cycle seems stalled, Vacation coming up. Need advice.

[RobStark]

It worked. I just tested and 0 nitrite. My substrate is dirty and filter needs cleaning though. I don't know if I should do filter maintenance before the trip. I don't want to compromise the bacteria now. What do you think?

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[Masha]

That is fantastic, congratulations.
Why do you say the filter needs cleaning? I'd only worry if it's actually clogging, if the flow through the filter seems slower than it should be, because that can compromise the bacteria. Also don't worry about the substrate. Giving the filter a light rinse shouldnt do any harm?