Defoamer and clarifier? Stay away from them!

You'll need a proper test kit, such as the Taylor K-2006 or K-2006C, but until then seek out the Walmart 5-way (or 6-way) drop test kit for about $15. It will give you a FAR better pH reading.

If you can't find than, then buy a simple OTO drop test kit--the pH test should be better than strips. If you can find one that uses Taylor chems, that's better (I think that's what the Leslie's chain stocks).