PS3 controller lights keep flashing but does not charge?

So I want to try connecting my ps3 controller to my laptop to play games but the controller is dead. So I plug in my controller to my laptop to charge using my small usb cable that connects my laptop fan to my laptop. It's the same type of plug. I left it on all night but the lights kept flashing and would not turn on. I tried resetting the controller. What could be the problem? Do I need a usb plug that is made for the controllers? Can it even charge on a laptop? My brother gave away our ps3 since we got a ps4 so I can't charge it on there. And I also tried charging on the ps4 but the lights just kept flashing