Laptop fans are great, but I find they OFTEN fail after only a few weeks. They are generally cheaply made and simply don't last. My solution to this has been manifold. Depending on the ambient temperature of the room, I use different methods.
When it's hot (Los Angeles 10-11 months per year), I use a small, portable, clip-on fan (available with usb, battery, or AC) placed strategically under the laptop. I elevate the laptop with a bed tray I've modified by removing every-other slat. I will post a pic of my modified tray when I can.
When it's cool, I use foam wedges under the laptop, on top of the tray, without the fan.
