Why do you think my laptop might be overheating?

on most hp laptops from that time they used very small heatsinks and fans. it might be that the fan and heatsink have dust in them. my sister has a similar laptop from 2008 and hers gets hot all the time. it might be that it is used to much or that it isn't getting enough air to the fan like if you keep it on a blanket or pillow.