defrosting

Some manual defrost freezers have removable pans that catch the water and can be emptied. Others have a valve where you can attach a hose to drain the water. If the unit doesn't have those provisions, empty it and just line it with a lot of towels to soak up the water. Put some towels on the floor in front of it as well. It's messy but not terribly messy. If you keep your eye on the process you should be able to avoid getting water on the floor.

Go for the frost-free if you can afford it, PLEASE. You won't regret it, ever.